Why patients choose dental bridges for replacing missing teeth

Dental bridges are a wonderful way to replace one or several teeth in a row that are missing. However, they are not the only way. It is essential that you connect with Dr. Adam Shroyer of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, to discuss bridges and decide if they are right for you!

What are the types of dental bridges available?

There are three main types of dental bridges for patient consideration: fixed, removable, and implant-retained. A fixed dental bridge is permanently cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist. A removable bridge is held in place by metal clasps that attach to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. An implant-retained bridge is supported by one or several implants placed into the jawbone.

Dental bridges vs. dental implants

A dental bridge includes both a false tooth, called a pontic, cemented into place between two crowns. The purpose of the bridge is to fill in the empty space created by one or more missing teeth. The advantage of the dental bridge is that it can be made to match your natural teeth in both color and shape. A disadvantage of dental bridges is that they require the healthy teeth on either side of the gap to be filed down for the bridge to fit properly. In addition, bridges can become loose over time and may eventually need to be replaced.

Dental implants are referred to as artificial roots placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or teeth. The advantage of dental implants is they do not require the healthy teeth on both or both sides of the gap to be addressed by filing them down. In addition, dental implants are very strong and durable, and they can last a lifetime with proper care. A primary disadvantage of dental implants is that they are more expensive than bridges.

Who can I talk to about the need to replace missing teeth?

Dental bridges are an excellent option for many of our patients visiting us at Shroyer Family Dental. If you are located in or around our community of Mount Pleasant, IA, and want to connect with Dr. Adam Shroyer to discuss bridges, call (319) 385-4680 for an appointment.