Which Type Of Bridge Do You Need?

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When you lose between one and three missing teeth in a row, you need a lifelike prosthetic to restore the function, health, and appearance of your smile. Fortunately, we offer our Des Moines, IA, patients two different types of dental bridges to address minor tooth loss. Find out more about our traditional and implant-secure tooth replacement options in today’s blog.

Traditional Dental Bridges

A traditional bridge consists of the new teeth, also known as pontics, with custom-made dental crowns attached to each end. We begin by preparing the natural teeth on either side of the gap in your smile, removing tooth structure and then taking detailed impressions. We use the impressions to design the prosthetic, which will be created using lifelike materials, such as ceramic or zirconia. We place the crowns onto the natural teeth to anchor the new ones in place. On average, the prosthetic lasts between 10 and 15 years before requiring replacement.

Implant Dental Bridges

With the dental implant option, we don’t need to remove tooth structure from surrounding teeth. Instead, the new teeth will be anchored in place with dental implants, which are inserted into the jawbone. There, they bond with the bone tissue through osseointegration, causing them to act as new tooth roots. Once in place, they last much longer than traditional bridges. They also stimulate the growth of jawbone tissue to help prevent further tooth loss.

Don’t Ignore Tooth Loss

While one or two missing teeth may not seem like much, even one lost tooth leads to the loss of jawbone density, which eventually causes to further tooth loss and an aged appearance. The gaps in your smile also make the onset of misalignment more likely. By addressing your tooth loss quickly, you avoid these serious complications.

Gateway Dental Group Provides Lifelike Tooth Replacement

At Gateway Dental Group, we offer custom dental prosthetics to help address minor and advanced cases of tooth loss. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Burds and his team at Gateway Dental Group, call our office today at (515) 244-9565. Located in Des Moines, IA, we proudly welcome patients from the Des Moines area, and surrounding communities.