Dr. Stephen A. Price

NORTHERN VIRGINIA GENERAL DENTISTRY &
INVISALIGN PREMIER PROVIDER

Call today for your free no obligation consultation: (703)-935-2879

6035 BURKE CENTRE PKWY | SUITE #200 | BURKE, VA 22015

Traditional Bridge or Implant-Supported Bridge: What’s the Difference, Anyway?

By: | Thursday, February 28th, 2019 | Dental Bridges

Thursday, February 28th, 2019


Dental Bridges | Burke, VA

Tooth replacement used to be so cut-and-dry. Lose a tooth and have a bridge installed. Dental bridges have been around for a long time but are no longer the only treatment option. In our Burke office, patients may consider the pros and cons of a traditional bridge versus an implant-supported bridge. Here, we discuss the particulars of each to help you make the most educated decision when the time comes to restore function to your smile.

The Traditional Bridge

A traditional dental bridge is a restorative fixture that consists entirely of artificial structures. A fixed bridge has two dental crowns and one or more pontics. These different types of artificial teeth look the same, but are slightly different. A crown looks like a tooth but is hollow in the center so it can be placed over an existing tooth. A pontic looks like a tooth and is solid all the way through because it sits in place over the gums. The bridge is made in a dental lab, where individual crowns and pontics are fused together. In the office, the bridge is set into place and secured with bonding material that allows natural teeth to anchor the fixture via the custom-fit dental crowns.

The Implant-Supported Bridge

By appearance alone, an implant-supported bridge may look very similar to a traditional bridge, featuring lifelike artificial teeth. However, in an implant-supported structure, all artificial teeth are pontics, no crowns are needed because the restoration is secured onto one or two dental implants. This restorative fixture may be ideal when two or more adjacent teeth need to be replaced. Dental implants are tiny posts that are inserted into the jawbone in a minor surgical procedure. A local anesthetic numbs the area, making implant insertion completely comfortable.

Which Dental Bridge is Right for You?

It is nice to have options in dental care, but more than one choice also means more decisions to be made. The best way to know which type of dental bridge will best serve your needs is to consult with Dr. Price in our Burke office. A thorough examination of your oral anatomy will provide the information needed to ensure your gums and jawbone would hold the small implant posts. Clear, detailed information about the longevity and durability of each bridge option is provided to you at this visit to help you make the most educated and confident decision about your dental treatment.

Call (703)-935-2879 to schedule your visit with us.

 

 

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