Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a treatment option for replacing a missing tooth in a patient's mouth. It consists of at least three crowns or caps connected to each other, which replace the missing tooth in the patient's mouth. A fixed dental bridge is a non-removable appliance and is a great way to replace missing teeth.
Reasons for a fixed bridge:
- Restore your smile and enhance your appearance.
- Fill the gaps of missing teeth.
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
- Improve your ability to chew and speak.
- Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.
What's the difference between a bridge and dentures?
The difference between a bridge and a denture is that a bridge is a fixed prosthesis, meaning it's cemented in the mouth and cannot be removed, whereas a denture is a type of prosthesis that the patient needs to take out every night.
What are the different types of dental bridges?
There are different types of bridges. The “traditional bridge” is the most common type. This type of bridge is made of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Bridges can be made from different materials. They can be made with porcelain with metal or, more cosmetically, with only porcelain. Generally, a traditional bridge is made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic.
What does getting a fixed bridge involve?
To get a dental bridge, you will need to visit the dental office two or more times. Firstly, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to allow for a crown. We will make a mold, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. Additionally, a temporary bridge will be made, in order to wear it until your next appointment.
At the second visit, the permanent bridge will be checked, adjusted, and cemented to obtain a perfect fit. Often, your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented later.
What are the alternatives for a dental bridge?
The alternative to a dental bridge would be to replace the missing tooth with a dental implant.
What is a cantilever dental bridge?
A cantilever dental bridge comprises two or three crowns connected, with the missing tooth at the end of the bridge.
How can a dental bridge help those with gum disease?
A dental bridge can help by replacing the missing teeth, which helps redistribute the pressure between the teeth more effectively. This can assist with gum disease for patients.
Is dental bridge work painful?
A dental bridge is not painful. The patient is under local anesthesia. It requires two visits: one visit for preparing the teeth for the bridge and taking an impression, and a second visit for the delivery of the bridge.
How should I care for my dental bridge?
You should care for the dental bridge as you would your normal teeth. You need to brush them and clean underneath the bridge with special tools, which can be purchased from any store.
When should I schedule an appointment for a dental bridge?
You can schedule an appointment for a dental bridge as soon as the area where the missing tooth was extracted is healed.
If you’re looking for dental care you can trust, call us at (610) 553-3389 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help you have the smile you've always wanted!