Dental Bridges to Replace a Single Tooth

The highly experienced dentists of Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry recognize that there are many methods for replacing a missing tooth, including a fixed bridge. However, they caution patients against dental bridges because these teeth replacement structures can lead to tooth decay and further loss of teeth. Instead, the dentists of Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry recommend that their patients receive dental implants in New York City. Read on to learn more about the differences between dental implant and dental bridge treatments.

Another option to replace a single missing tooth is a fixed bridge. A high-speed drill shaves down a significant amount of the neighboring teeth’s natural structure. This prepares the teeth for the fitting of a fabricated three-unit bridge that is cemented in place. However, bone loss soon occurs, and plaque buildup is common below the margins of the crowns. The neighboring teeth lack adequate tooth structure, which makes them weaker and more susceptible to tooth decay. Tooth decay leads to root canals, and a root canal can eventually cause additional tooth loss.The bridge can be repaired, by the preparation of the additional tooth and the cementing of a four-unit bridge. Additional bone loss occurs and there is still consequences of additional tooth decay and root canal disease that may lead to another failed bridge.

Treatment Steps

Disadvantages of a Tooth-Supported Bridge

• Extra forces are placed on the supporting teeth
• Must grind or shave the supporting teeth
• Possible need for a root canal
• Risk for decay under the bridge
• Not able to floss the bridge (must use other aids)
• Lack of stimulation of bone leads to jaw bone defects

Compare all single tooth replacement treatment options »

At Advanced Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, patients are offered a number of advanced dental implants and periodontics treatments. All of the practice’s dentists have been recognized as highly skilled New York City / New Jersey periodontists who offer leading-edge gum restoration and gum disease treatments. Call us or click here to request your free dental implant consultation today!