Dental Bridge is a type of fixed prosthetic dental restoration used to replace missing teeth. It relies primarily on the adjacent natural teeth for support. Therefore, there must be strong natural teeth on both sides. Additionally, there are various details that the dentist will consider to determine the suitability of the procedure as follows:
When is a dental bridge appropriate?
- When a fixed replacement for missing teeth is needed, and there are strong natural teeth adjacent to the gap on both sides.
- For patients who have contraindications for surgery or fear undergoing surgery for dental implant placement.
- In cases where the natural teeth adjacent to the gap on both sides have large fillings or have been treated with crowns, making it suitable for a dental bridge. This is because some natural tooth structure has already been lost due to fillings or crowns, so preparing the abutment teeth will not result in significant additional tooth structure loss.
When is a dental bridge not appropriate?
- The missing tooth position has natural teeth adjacent to the gap on only one side.
- The abutment teeth adjacent to the gap are not strong, such as having large cavities, significant tooth structure loss, or mobility.
If patients wish to have a dental bridge or dental treatment, they should consult a dentist for an oral examination before making any decisions.
Dr. Pongsarapee Kamolrungwarakul
Specialist in Prosthodontics
Dental Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
