Bridge (dentistry)

Bridge (dentistry)

A bridge in dentistry refers to a prosthetic structure that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is anchored to the adjacent teeth, known as abutments, and spans the gap where the teeth are missing, hence the term "bridge".

Pronunciation

The word "bridge" in this context is pronounced as /brɪdʒ/.

Etymology

The term "bridge" in dentistry is derived from its literal meaning, which is a structure carrying a pathway or roadway over a depression or obstacle. In dentistry, the bridge serves a similar purpose, spanning the gap left by missing teeth.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges: traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges.

Traditional Bridge: This is the most common type of bridge. It involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between.

Cantilever Bridge: This type of bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.

Maryland Bridge: Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, this type of bridge is often used to replace front teeth. It involves bonding the pontic to the back of the adjacent teeth.

Implant-Supported Bridge: As the name suggests, this type of bridge is supported by implants. Instead of being supported by crowns or frameworks, these bridges are supported by dental implants.