3 Types of Dental Bridges Explained

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly, maintain facial structure, prevent remaining teeth from shifting, and improve the appearance of your smile.

There are three main types of dental bridges, each designed for specific clinical situations. Understanding the differences will help you and your dentist choose the best option for your needs. For patients in Hanoi, see our guide to the top 10 dental clinics for a 3-unit dental bridge.

Type 1: Traditional Dental Bridge

The traditional dental bridge is the most common type used in dentistry. It consists of one or more pontics (artificial teeth) held in place by dental crowns cemented onto the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are called abutment teeth.

How It Works

1. The abutment teeth are prepared by removing a layer of enamel to make room for the crowns
2. Impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory
3. A temporary bridge is placed while the permanent bridge is fabricated
4. The permanent bridge is cemented into place, typically at a second appointment

Materials

Traditional bridges can be made from:

• Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): A metal framework covered with tooth-colored porcelain. Offers good strength and acceptable aesthetics.
• All-ceramic or all-porcelain: Provides the most natural appearance and is ideal for front teeth. Modern ceramics like zirconia are strong enough for posterior bridges as well.
• Full metal: Gold alloy or base metal alloy bridges offer the greatest durability and are sometimes used for back teeth where aesthetics are less critical.

Advantages

• Proven long-term success rate (bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care)
• Strong and durable, suitable for replacing molars that withstand heavy chewing forces
• Natural appearance, especially with all-ceramic materials
• Fixed in place, requiring no removal for cleaning
• Restores full chewing function

Disadvantages

• Requires permanent alteration (reduction) of two healthy adjacent teeth
• Abutment teeth are more susceptible to decay under the crowns if oral hygiene is poor
• If either abutment tooth fails, the entire bridge may need replacement
• Does not prevent bone loss in the area of the missing tooth

Best For

Replacing one to three consecutive missing teeth when there are healthy, strong natural teeth on both sides of the gap.

Type 2: Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but is supported by a crown on only one side of the gap rather than both sides. The pontic extends from the single abutment tooth like a cantilever.

How It Works

1. Only one abutment tooth is prepared with a crown
2. The pontic is attached to and supported by this single crown
3. The bridge is cemented onto the prepared tooth

Advantages

• Only one adjacent tooth needs to be prepared, preserving the tooth on the other side of the gap
• Useful when there is only one suitable abutment tooth available
• Less tooth structure is removed overall compared to a traditional bridge

Disadvantages

• Greater leverage and stress on the single abutment tooth
• Higher risk of loosening or debonding compared to traditional bridges
• Not recommended for areas that experience heavy biting forces (back of the mouth)
• The abutment tooth may be more prone to fracture under the unbalanced load
• Shorter expected lifespan than a traditional bridge

Best For

Replacing a single missing tooth in areas of low biting force, particularly front teeth, when there is only one suitable adjacent tooth for support. Most commonly used when the missing tooth is at the end of a row of teeth.

Type 3: Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)

A Maryland bridge, also known as a resin-bonded bridge or adhesive bridge, uses a metal or ceramic framework with wing-like extensions that are bonded to the back surfaces of the adjacent teeth. Unlike traditional and cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges do not require crowns on the abutment teeth.

How It Works

1. Minimal preparation of the adjacent teeth (slight roughening of the back surfaces)
2. A pontic with metal or ceramic wings is fabricated in the laboratory
3. The wings are bonded to the inner surfaces of the adjacent teeth using resin cement

Materials

• Metal framework: The original design uses a cast metal framework. This is durable but may cause a slight grayish shadow to show through the abutment teeth.
• All-ceramic framework: Newer designs use zirconia or glass-ceramic wings, which eliminate the metallic shadow and provide better aesthetics.

Advantages

• Conservative approach that preserves the natural tooth structure of adjacent teeth
• No crowns needed on abutment teeth
• Reversible in most cases (the bonded wings can be removed without significant damage to the teeth)
• Less expensive than traditional bridges
• Shorter preparation and treatment time
• Good aesthetic results, especially with ceramic frameworks

Disadvantages

• Lower retention compared to traditional bridges (bonded wings can debond)
• Not suitable for replacing posterior teeth that bear heavy chewing forces
• Limited to replacing one or two teeth
• The metal wings may create a grayish appearance on the abutment teeth (with metal framework designs)
• Requires careful occlusal (bite) analysis to avoid excessive force on the bonded wings

Best For

Replacing a single missing front tooth in patients who want to preserve the integrity of their adjacent teeth, particularly in younger patients or when the adjacent teeth are healthy and unrestored.

Comparison Table

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge

Regardless of the type, all dental bridges require proper care to maximize their lifespan:

• Brush twice daily around and under the bridge
• Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the pontic where the artificial tooth meets the gum
• Use a water flosser to flush debris from around the bridge
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge the bridge
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and bridge evaluation

At Serenity International Dental Clinic, our prosthodontic team evaluates each patient’s specific situation to recommend the most appropriate type of bridge, using high-quality materials and precise laboratory fabrication for optimal fit, function, and aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a dental bridge last?

With proper care, traditional dental bridges can last 10 to 15 years or longer. Maryland and cantilever bridges typically have slightly shorter lifespans of 5 to 10 years.

Is getting a dental bridge painful?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is not painful. Some sensitivity in the prepared teeth is normal for a few days after the procedure.

Can a dental bridge be replaced?

Yes. When a bridge reaches the end of its functional life or if a problem develops, it can be removed and replaced with a new bridge, individual crowns, or dental implants.

Should I choose a bridge or a dental implant?

Dental implants are generally considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they preserve bone and do not require alteration of adjacent teeth. However, bridges may be preferred when implants are not possible due to insufficient bone, medical conditions, or patient preference. Your dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.

Related Reading

• Dental Bridge Service Page — Full procedure details, materials, and aftercare at our Hanoi clinic
• Dental Crowns — The crown restorations used as abutments in bridge construction
• Dental Crown Cost in Vietnam — Pricing for crowns that form part of your bridge
• Dentures — Removable tooth replacement as an alternative to bridges
• Dental Implants — The gold standard for replacing missing teeth without altering adjacent teeth
• Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry for a Smile Makeover — How bridges fit into a comprehensive treatment plan
• View Our Pricing — Full list of treatment costs at Picasso Dental Clinic
• 6 Reasons Dental Bridges Are Still Relevant in the Age of Implants
• Comparison of All-Porcelain Crown vs PFM Crown — Crown materials used as bridge abutments
• 8 Differences Between Zirconia and E.max Crowns — Material options for bridge crowns

Related Pages

• Dental Crowns & Bridges at Picasso Dental Clinic — Zirconia, E.max, and PFM crowns and fixed bridges in Hanoi