Dental Bridges for Front Teeth vs. Molars

When a small set of teeth are missing, a dental bridge may be the ideal restoration. Dental bridges sit between two natural teeth and provide a strong, durable, and attractive replacement for missing teeth.

There are several options for patients to consider when it comes to dental bridge treatment. Some of the factors that may impact patients’ treatment plan include the state of their oral health, the cost of various treatment options, and the location of tooth loss.

Here, patients can learn more about how Dr. Bruce Wilderman uses dental bridges for the front teeth vs. molars at our Philadelphia, PA dental practice.

Dental Bridges for the Front Teeth

The front teeth are part of the smile zone, meaning that these teeth are easily seen when a person smiles, talks, or laughs. It is important to replace missing front teeth to restore the integrity of the bite and the appearance of the smile.

When a patient is having a dental bridge placed in the front of the mouth, Dr. Wilderman often recommends an all ceramic restoration. Ceramic dental bridges can be customized by shape, size, and color, so that they closely match the natural teeth.

Because all ceramic bridges are completely free of metal, they maintain their color over the years and continue to blend in seamlessly with the natural teeth.

Dental Bridges for Molars

The molars sit at the back of the mouth and are not highly visible when a person smiles. The molars do play a significant role in chewing. As such, strength is a big concern when the back teeth are being replaced.

Although ceramic dental bridges are strong and durable, patients with missing molars may want to consider a bridge made of porcelain fused to metal. These restorations have an attractive porcelain outer layer that blends in with the natural teeth, but a strong metal center that can withstand a significant amount of force.

This added strength can be beneficial to the back teeth, which perform so many oral functions.

Traditional vs. Implant-supported Bridges

Either traditional or implant-supported bridges can be used to replace missing teeth at the front or back of the mouth. This choice largely comes down to personal preference, but it also depends on the state of adjacent teeth.

If the missing teeth are surrounded by healthy teeth, a traditional bridge can be placed. Dental crowns will be fixed to adjacent teeth and will act as anchors for the bridge.

If there are no healthy teeth adjacent to the area of tooth loss, dental implants are a possible treatment option. Dental implants are placed within the jawbone, where they act as artificial tooth roots and provide a support structure for the bridge.

Dental implants offer many benefits. They provide enhanced strength and stability, they can be cared for just like the natural teeth, and they prevent bone loss. Because of these advantages, many patients opt for an implant-supported bridge even if they have teeth to support a traditional bridge.

Get in Touch

If you have experienced tooth loss and want to restore the strength, function, and beauty of your smile, you may be an ideal candidate for a dental bridge. Dr. Bruce J. Wilderman will be happy to personalize a treatment plan that best meets your unique needs and desires. To learn more, contact us at your earliest convenience by calling (215) 340-1199.