Having a single missing tooth or even a few missing teeth is far more common than you might think. The average American adult has as many as three missing, damaged, or decaying teeth. These are very common problems many of our dentist Smithtown, NY patients complain about when they visit our office.
One of the best solutions for gaps and spaces where a tooth or teeth used to be is having a dental bridge procedure done. A dental bridge incorporates an artificial tooth or teeth to fill empty spaces between teeth. There are four kinds of dental bridges that can be placed, and our talented dentist at Dr. Joe’s is highly skilled in all of them.
Traditional Dental Bridges
The traditional dental bridge is the most common dental bridge procedure. A traditional dental bridge is used when the gap is between two natural teeth, which serve as the support, or abutment, for the prosthetic tooth or teeth. They are affixed to the supporting teeth with dental crowns that are cemented in place.
Maryland Dental Bridges
The Maryland dental bridge is similar to the traditional bridge, wherein the pontic is supported by natural teeth. However, a framework of metal or porcelain is bonded to the abutments to hold the pontic in place, rather than with a dental crown. It’s a less abrasive procedure that will not compromise the integrity of the natural supporting teeth but falls just a bit shorter in terms of strength and lasting quality.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
A cantilever dental bridge is necessary for a gap that only has one natural tooth to support the pontic. The cantilever dental bridge is secured in a place like the traditional dental bridge, with a dental crown on the abutment.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
Finally, the implant-supported dental bridge is placed alongside dental implants Smithtown, NY. Rather than bonded frames and crowns, the artificial tooth or teeth used in implant-supported bridges are held in place with the dental implants. This is the most involved dental bridge procedure of them and can take several months from start to completion.
Your dentist in Smithtown, NY will gladly review all of your dental bridge options with you and advise you on the best solutions for your oral health.
If you are in Dix Hills, Deer Park, Mid Island, North Shore, the Hamptons, Bay Shore, North Massapequa, South Shore, Northport, East Quogue, Port Jefferson Station, Huntington, Commack or the surrounding communities, visit Dr. Joe’s in Smithtown, NY. Besides dental bridges, we also offer dental crowns in Smithtown, NY among other cosmetic dentist near me procedures. Call us today and book an appointment.
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