Bridges
Bridges (medicine)
Bridges (pronunciation: /ˈbrɪdʒɪz/) are dental restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically anchored to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap.
Etymology
The term "bridge" in the context of dentistry originates from the literal meaning of the word, referring to a structure carrying a pathway or roadway over a depression or obstacle. In dentistry, a bridge carries the "pathway" of occlusion over the "obstacle" of a missing tooth or teeth.
Types of Bridges
There are several types of bridges, including:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type of bridge, consisting of one or more fake teeth (or pontics) held in place by dental crowns (or abutments) that have been cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth.
- Cantilever Bridges: These are similar to traditional bridges, but the fake tooth is supported by an abutment on only one side, rather than on both sides. This means they are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
- Maryland Bridges: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type of bridge consists of a fake tooth that is held in place by a metal or porcelain framework. This framework is bonded onto the backs of the two teeth adjacent to the missing tooth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: As the name suggests, these bridges are supported by implants. In most cases, one implant is surgically placed for every missing tooth, and these implants hold the bridge in position.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bridges
- Wikipedia's article - Bridges
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