Choosing Durable Dental Bridge Materials: Expert Recommendations for Long-lasting Solutions

Q: Choosing Durable Dental Bridge Materials: Expert Recommendations for Long-lasting Solutions

Hello： If there is a strong bite force and a habit of teeth grinding, it is recommended to use metal crowns or bridges with a higher gold content. <br>Additionally, a night guard can be used to protect the joints and muscles. <br>Thank you!

When selecting materials for a posterior dental bridge, several factors should be considered, including strength, aesthetics, and biocompatibility. Common materials include: 1. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): This option provides good strength and aesthetics, making it suitable for posterior teeth where durability is essential. 2. Zirconia: Known for its exceptional strength and natural appearance, zirconia is increasingly popular for posterior bridges due to its resistance to wear and fracture. 3?

Dear Doctor,
I would like to ask you some questions.
When I was a child, I did not brush my teeth, which led to many cavities.
After getting several dental prostheses, most of them lasted for over a decade.
However, the dental bridge on the lower left side (missing the first molar, consisting of three units) has had multiple issues: In 1993, I had the first bridge made (without root canal treatment).
In 2008, the bridge (for the second premolar) became loose, and I underwent root canal treatment for the second premolar and had the bridge redone.
In 2011, the second molar had porcelain fracture, and I had to remake the bridge.
In 2015, the first molar below had porcelain fracture, and the doctor repaired it with some kind of clay.
In 2019, the bridge (for the second premolar) became loose again, but there were no cavities inside, so I had to remake the bridge.
My jaw is large, and my occlusal force may be greater than average.
Occasionally, I grind my teeth at night.
My questions are:
1.
For durability as the main consideration, what materials would you recommend for dental bridges that have previously experienced loosening and porcelain fractures, in order of preference?
2.
If I choose metal crowns to avoid porcelain fractures, which metal materials are more durable and have a high fit, in order of preference?
Thank you sincerely for your patient responses and assistance.
Wishing you peace and happiness!

Sandy, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/08

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If there is a strong bite force and a habit of teeth grinding, it is recommended to use metal crowns or bridges with a higher gold content.
Additionally, a night guard can be used to protect the joints and muscles.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/01/08

More Info

When it comes to choosing durable dental bridge materials, especially for someone with a history of dental issues and a strong bite, several factors need to be considered. Your experience with multiple dental bridges and the challenges you've faced highlight the importance of selecting the right materials and understanding their properties.

1. Recommended Materials for Durability
For durability, the following materials are commonly recommended for dental bridges, listed in order of preference:
- Zirconia: This is one of the most durable materials available for dental bridges. Zirconia is a type of ceramic that is extremely strong and resistant to wear. It can withstand significant biting forces, making it an excellent choice for patients with a strong bite or bruxism (teeth grinding). Additionally, zirconia has a natural appearance and can be made to match the color of your natural teeth.

- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): This material combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal substructure provides excellent durability, while the porcelain offers a natural look. However, over time, the porcelain can chip or wear down, especially in patients with high bite forces.

- Full metal crowns (such as gold or other alloys): While not as aesthetic as porcelain options, full metal crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand heavy chewing forces. Gold crowns, in particular, are known for their longevity and biocompatibility. They are less likely to fracture compared to porcelain.

- Base metal alloys: These are less expensive than gold but still provide good strength and durability. They are often used in PFM bridges and can be a suitable option for posterior teeth where aesthetics are less of a concern.

2. Metal Options for Bridges
If you decide to go with a metal bridge to avoid chipping porcelain, the following metals are recommended based on their durability and fit:
- Gold alloys: Gold is one of the most durable materials for dental restorations. It has excellent wear resistance and is less likely to cause wear on opposing teeth. Gold crowns also provide a good fit due to their malleability.

- Nickel-chromium alloys: These alloys are strong and less expensive than gold. They are commonly used in dental restorations but may cause allergic reactions in some patients. It’s essential to ensure that you do not have a nickel allergy before choosing this option.

- Cobalt-chromium alloys: Similar to nickel-chromium, these alloys are strong and provide good fit and durability. They are often used in partial dentures and can be a good choice for bridges as well.

Additional Considerations
Given your history of dental issues, it’s crucial to address the underlying factors contributing to the wear and tear of your dental work. Here are some additional recommendations:
- Night guards: Since you mentioned occasional teeth grinding, wearing a night guard can help protect your dental bridges and natural teeth from excessive wear.

- Regular dental check-ups: Frequent visits to your dentist can help monitor the condition of your dental work and catch any issues early before they require more extensive repairs.

- Oral hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital for the longevity of any dental restoration. Regular brushing, flossing, and possibly using an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent gum disease and decay around the bridge.

In conclusion, selecting the right material for your dental bridge is crucial for ensuring durability and longevity. Zirconia and PFM are excellent choices for their balance of strength and aesthetics, while gold and other metal alloys provide unmatched durability. Always consult with your dentist to determine the best option tailored to your specific dental needs and lifestyle.

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