A dental bridge is a time-tested way to replace one or more missing teeth, literally bridging the gap so you can chew and smile naturally again. What many patients do not realize is that there is more than one kind of bridge. The right design depends on where the gap is and what the surrounding teeth look like. Below is a clear explanation of the main types we discuss with patients in Fremont.
Traditional bridges
The traditional bridge is the most common type. It uses the two natural teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. Those teeth are reshaped and fitted with crowns, and a replacement tooth, called a pontic, is suspended between them to fill the space. Traditional bridges are strong and reliable, making them a good choice when the teeth on both sides of the gap are healthy and could serve as solid supports. They are often a practical option when those neighboring teeth would benefit from crowns anyway.
Cantilever bridges
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it anchors to a tooth on only one side of the gap rather than both. This can be useful when there is a healthy tooth on just one side of the missing tooth. Because the support comes from a single side, cantilever bridges are typically reserved for areas of the mouth that handle lighter chewing forces. Your dentist will determine whether the location and bite make this design appropriate.
Maryland bridges
A Maryland bridge, also called a resin-bonded bridge, takes a more conservative approach. Instead of crowning the neighboring teeth, it uses a thin metal or porcelain framework with small wings that bond to the back of the adjacent teeth. Because it preserves more of the natural tooth structure, a Maryland bridge can be an attractive option, particularly for replacing a front tooth where chewing forces are lighter. The trade-off is that the bond is generally not as strong as a traditional bridge, so it is not ideal for areas under heavy load.
Implant-supported bridges
When several teeth in a row are missing, an implant-supported bridge may be the best solution. Rather than anchoring to natural teeth, this bridge is supported by dental implants placed in the jawbone. This approach does not rely on the neighboring teeth and offers excellent stability, and the implants help preserve the bone. If you are weighing this against single-tooth options, our guides on implant restorations and bridges versus implants versus partial dentures can help you compare.
Materials and appearance
Bridges can be made from porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or porcelain fused to metal, and the choice affects both strength and appearance. For visible areas, tooth-colored materials blend in beautifully, while stronger materials may be chosen for back teeth that absorb more force. At our Fremont office, Dr. Anna Yi selects a material that balances durability and a natural look for your specific case.
Finding the right bridge for you
Choosing among these designs comes down to the location of the gap, the health of the surrounding teeth, your bite, and your goals. A bridge is one part of our broader restorative dentistry care, and we will explain your options in plain terms. We welcome patients from Fremont and nearby Hayward and Milpitas. To find out which type of bridge fits your smile, contact us to schedule an exam.
Have questions about dental bridges in Fremont? Our team is happy to help.