Why do some dental bridges have a metal border

When it comes to dental bridges, you may have noticed that some of them have a metal border. This may leave you wondering why some bridges incorporate metal into their design. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the use of metal borders in dental bridges from various aspects, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this common practice.

Aesthetic Considerations

One of the primary reasons for using a metal border in dental bridges is to achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance. While all-ceramic or all-porcelain bridges are highly esthetic, they may lack the strength and durability required in some cases. By incorporating a metal framework beneath the ceramic material, dental professionals can ensure both strength and esthetics.

The metal framework provides the necessary support and stability for the bridge, while the ceramic material mimics the look, feel, and color of natural teeth. This combination allows the bridge to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth, providing patients with a beautiful smile.

The use of metal borders in dental bridges also enables a more precise fit, resulting in a better overall esthetic outcome. This is especially important in cases where the bridge is replacing front teeth, as any signs of metal can be highly noticeable and undesirable in the aesthetic zone.

Strength and Durability

While aesthetics are important, functionality and longevity are equally crucial when it comes to dental restorations. Metal borders enhance the strength and durability of dental bridges, making them more resistant to fractures and wear over time.

The metal framework used in dental bridges is usually made from alloys such as cobalt-chromium or titanium. These materials possess excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength and corrosion resistance. The metal framework distributes the biting forces evenly across the supporting teeth, preventing excessive stress and reducing the risk of bridge failure.

Furthermore, the use of metal borders allows for the fabrication of longer-span bridges. In cases where a patient is missing several teeth in a row, a longer bridge may be required to restore the function and appearance of their smile. The additional support provided by the metal framework enables the construction of bridges spanning a larger area without compromising stability.

Price Range: The cost of dental bridges with metal borders can vary depending on factors such as the materials used, the number of teeth being replaced, and the complexity of the case. On average, the price for a dental bridge with a metal border ranges from $2,500 to $4,500.

Biocompatibility

In addition to esthetics and strength, biocompatibility is a crucial factor in dental restorations. Metal borders in dental bridges are commonly used due to the biocompatible nature of the materials employed.

Cobalt-chromium and titanium alloys used in dental bridges have been extensively studied and proven to be well-tolerated by the human body. They exhibit excellent biocompatibility properties, ensuring minimal adverse reactions or complications post-implantation.

Moreover, the use of metal borders avoids any potential allergic reactions to the ceramic materials or dental adhesives used in other types of bridges. This makes metal-based bridges a safe and reliable choice for individuals with known allergies or sensitivities.

Preservation of Tooth Structure

One of the significant advantages of dental bridges with metal borders is the preservation of tooth structure. Unlike dental implants that require the adjacent teeth to be completely modified, bridges only rely on the support of the neighboring teeth.

By using a metal framework, the dental professional can create a bridge that minimizes the preparation of natural teeth while still ensuring stability and longevity. This conservative approach is generally preferred as it helps preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Additionally, the metal framework allows for a better distribution of forces across the abutment teeth, reducing the risk of trauma or damage to the supporting teeth over time.

Ease of Fabrication and Repair

The use of metal borders in dental bridges also offers practical advantages in terms of fabrication and repair. The metal framework provides a stable base for the ceramic material, making the fabrication process more straightforward and predictable.

Ceramic materials used in dental bridges can be fragile and prone to chipping or cracking. By incorporating a metal border, the overall bridge becomes more resistant to fractures. In cases of minor damage, repairs can be made without the need for complete replacement.

Additionally, the dental laboratory can add or modify the ceramic material on the metal framework, allowing for adjustments in shape, size, or color to achieve optimal fit and esthetics.

Compatibility with Various Bite Configurations

Every patient has a unique bite configuration, and it is essential to consider these individual differences when planning dental restorations. The use of a metal border in dental bridges allows for compatibility with various bite configurations.

Some patients may have a heavy bite or exhibit bruxism (teeth grinding), which can exert excessive forces on the dental bridge. The metal framework enhances the bridge's resistance to these forces, ensuring the restoration remains intact and functional.

Moreover, patients with natural teeth adjacent to the edentulous space may have varying gum levels or dental arch discrepancies. The metal border allows for better adaptation to these irregularities, resulting in a more accurate and stable fit.

Long-Term Stability

Patients expect their dental restorations to provide long-term stability and functionality. Metal borders contribute significantly to the long-term stability of dental bridges.

With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges with metal borders can last for a long time. The metal framework provides internal reinforcement, preventing the bridge from flexing or warping under normal biting forces. This, in turn, helps maintain the proper fit and prevents rocking or loosening of the bridge.

Alternative Material Options

While metal borders are commonly used in dental bridges, there are alternative material options available. All-ceramic or all-porcelain bridges provide excellent aesthetics but may not be suitable for all cases.

Zirconia, a type of ceramic, is often used as an alternative to metal in dental bridges. It offers high strength and durability, making it an excellent choice for posterior (back) teeth that require increased stability.

Price Range: Zirconia bridges are generally more expensive than metal-based bridges. On average, the cost of a zirconia bridge ranges from $3,500 to $6,000.

Conclusion

The use of metal borders in dental bridges serves various purposes, including achieving natural aesthetics, enhancing strength and durability, ensuring biocompatibility, preserving tooth structure, facilitating fabrication and repair, accommodating different bite configurations, and providing long-term stability.

While metal borders may not be required in all cases, they offer a reliable and proven solution for restoring missing teeth. The decision on whether to incorporate a metal border or opt for alternative materials should be based on the individual patient's needs, expectations, and oral health condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are dental bridges with metal borders noticeable?

Metal borders are typically not noticeable when the bridge is properly fabricated and fitted. The ceramic material used on top of the metal framework mimics the appearance of natural teeth, resulting in a seamless blend with the surrounding dentition.

2. How long do dental bridges with metal borders last?

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental bridges with metal borders can last for an average of 10 to 15 years. However, individual factors such as oral hygiene, diet, and general oral health practices can influence the longevity of the bridge.

3. Can I be allergic to the metal used in dental bridges?

Allergy to metals used in dental bridges is rare but not impossible. It is essential to inform your dentist about any known allergies or sensitivities you may have before undergoing any dental restoration procedure.