Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges in SoHo
Dental bridges are a great hybrid between permanent and temporary tooth replacements. If you’ve lost one to four teeth, bridges can latch onto existing teeth to bridge the gap. They aren’t removable like dentures, but they aren’t surgically-invasive like implants. So, why choose bridges over similar options? Our team at Greene Street Dental would be happy to go over the full scope of your cosmetic dentistry options. We want to thoroughly consider your health, preferences, and budget when creating your new smile.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Bridges are lightweight replacement teeth that are anchored to your natural teeth (abutments) via dental crowns or metal wings. It can be hard to visualize what that looks like, so let’s get into the different kinds of bridges to help you get a better picture.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are so versatile because they can work in a variety of situations. Our dentist will assess the health of your gums, the location of the missing tooth, your jaw’s bone density, and your personal preferences to decide which kind of bridge is right for you.
- Traditional fixed bridges. Fixed bridges are best when the missing teeth are positioned between healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. The abutment teeth (the existing natural teeth) are ground down and fitted to a custom crown. The replacement tooth or teeth are affixed to the dental crowns, so they are all in one piece.
- Cantilever bridges. If your missing tooth cannot be anchored by an abutment tooth on both sides, it can be anchored by one or two teeth on just one side.
- Maryland bonded bridges. These replacement teeth are bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth with metal or porcelain wings. This type of bridge is best for front teeth or teeth that are positioned next to other restorations such as crowns.
- Implant-supported bridges. These more permanent bridges are a hybrid between implants and bridges. Posts are implanted on both sides of a large gap, so the bridge teeth are supported by the dental implants, not natural teeth.
Why Choose a Dental Bridge Over Another Option?
If you’re weighing your options, and all of this information isn’t painting a clear enough picture for you, we can break it down even further.
Bridges Vs. Dentures
Here are a few advantages of bridges over dentures:
- Bridges can feel more natural and secure than dentures, as they are highly unlikely to fall out. This can lead to greater confidence in your tooth replacements and fewer inhibitions regarding social events and food.
- Bridges don’t have to be adjusted and replaced as often as dentures. The fit of dentures can change fairly often, as your gums rapidly re-shape following tooth loss. Bridges stay in place for up to 15 years.
- Bridges require less daily maintenance. Do you brush your teeth and floss on a daily basis? Then, all you need to do is floss under the bridge for one small, additional step. Dentures, on the other hand, require soaking, brushing, cleanser, and daily re-adhesive.
Bridges vs. Implants
Here are a few advantages of traditional bridges over implants:
- Bridges can be affixed in a single visit, whereas the implant process can take 6 months or more.
- Bridges are less invasive than implants. While implants require a lengthy implantation and recovery process, bridges only require abutment teeth to be ground down to fit into a crown.
- Bridges are more cost-accessible than implants. Where implants can cost up to $5,000 per tooth, bridges generally cost around $1,500 per tooth.
Not Sure Which Cosmetic Dentistry Option Is Right for You?
A lot goes into building your ideal smile, and budget is just one consideration. As your cosmetic dentist office in Lower Manhattan, it’s our job to help you feel confident in the path you take towards a functional, beautiful smile. When you have questions, concerns, and feedback, we want to hear them. After all, you are the leader on this journey. We’re here to help you overcome hurdles and make decisions along the way.
Check out our other cosmetic dentistry services
Get Your Custom Dental Bridges at Our SoHo Dental Office
Information is a great resource when you’re considering investing in your smile, but your research can only take you so far. Our dentists can take you the rest of the way, guiding you toward a decision that’s truly best for your long-term health, wallet, and aesthetic preferences. We want to be transparent with you about what living with your bridges will look like, so you can make the best decision for you.
To schedule an appointment, book online or call (212) 226-5777 today.