If you’ve recently suffered tooth loss, we highly recommend looking into teeth replacement options. Unaddressed tooth loss has significant detrimental effects on your oral and overall well-being. For example, missing teeth can cause bone loss, bite collapse, speech problems, and low self-confidence.

Restorative Arts Dental is a family-friendly dental practice that offers a wide range of restorative treatments, including bridges in Sumter, SC. A dental bridge consists of false, pontic, or replacement teeth supported by adjacent teeth. Individuals who have experienced partial tooth loss are suitable candidates for bridges near you.

Types of Bridges

There are three kinds of dental bridges—traditional bridges, Maryland-bonded bridges, cantilever bridges, and implant-supported bridges. To find out which dental bridge suits you best, please schedule a consultation with our dentists in Sumter, SC.

Traditional Dental Bridges

A conventional dental bridge consists of one to four pontic teeth supported by two anchor teeth, each on either side of the gap. The bridge is attached to the anchor teeth via dental crowns. You can only get conventional teeth if you have healthy natural teeth to support your restoration.

Maryland-bonded Bridges 

A Maryland-bonded bridge is also supported by two anchor teeth. However, unlike conventional bridges that utilize dental crowns for support, Maryland-bonded bridges use a framework of wings. These porcelain or metal wings are attached to the underside of the anchor teeth. Thus, Maryland bridges are ideal for replacing the front teeth.

Cantilever Bridges

A cantilever bridge is supported by a single anchor tooth via a dental crown. If you only have a sole healthy tooth next to the tooth gap, a cantilever bridge may be right for you.

Implant-Supported Bridges

As the name implies, these bridges are anchored by artificial tooth roots or dental implants. These are advantageous as they don’t involve reshaping healthy teeth and can be used even in patients with significant tooth loss.

Benefits of Bridges

Dental bridges have numerous benefits, including:

• They close unsightly gaps in your smile, thus boosting your smile’s appearance.
• They reinstate your chewing ability.
• They allow you to enunciate words correctly.
• Bridges are usually lightweight and easy to adjust to.
• Implant-supported bridges stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone loss.

If you’re battling tooth loss, our dentists near you can help. Please call Restorative Arts Dental to find out more.