Dental Bridge If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can help bridge the gap, restoring the look and function of your teeth. A dental bridge is a row of crowns that bridges the gap between teeth. Loss of teeth can impact your ability to eat, your smile, your gum health, and the position of your teeth in the future. Your treatment is important in preventing unwanted gum disease and orthodontic issues, and restoring your teeth to their full function. Visit us at Town Center Dental to see if a dental bridge is right for you.What does a dental bridge look like?A common dental bridge has two components, the abutment teeth and the pontics. Abutment teeth are the anchors of the bridge; they are two crowns that go over the supporting teeth. Those can be your natural teeth or dental implants. Pontics are the false tooth (or teeth). They fill the gap and attach to the crowns. Do I have any other options besides a dental bridge?We understand that many of our patients are looking for alternative dental restorations. There are a few options available: partial dentures, or removable false teeth, are a common alternative. Some people choose dental implants, which are surgically placed implants in the jaw. Proper dental hygiene and bi-annual dental exams are key in preventing tooth loss, tooth decay, and avoiding the necessity for this restorative dental procedure. Give us a call at 636-273-5866 to see which option is right for you. What types of dental bridges are available?Traditional bridges are made of metal, ceramics, or porcelain fused to metal. Bridges can vary in size and structure depending on the placement along the jaw and surrounding structure. Traditional fixed bridges are the most common bridge. They consist of two or more crowns and a filler tooth that are all connected in a row, the crowns held in place by teeth. Cantilever bridges are good for people with teeth on only one side of the gap. They consist of a pontic that is connected to only one abutment tooth. The resin-bonded bridge, or Maryland dental bridge, is good for patients with missing front teeth. They can be ceramic teeth or porcelain fused to metal supported by a framework. Ceramic or metal wings on each side of the bridge bond to the surrounding teeth. An implant-supported bridge is similar to the traditional fixed bridge, instead of being cemented in place by teeth, it is supported by implants. Dental procedure for a traditional dental bridgePreparing and installing a dental bridge will take at least two appointments. First, one of our dentists will prepare the abutment crown teeth. They will reshape the teeth removing part of the enamel and dentin layer to make room for the crowns. Then a digital scan or impression of your teeth is made. The impression or digital scan is sent to a dental laboratory. They will use the mold to create your bridge, false teeth, and crowns. In most cases, you will have a temporary bridge to protect the exposed area in your mouth while the lab prepares your bridge. Upon your second visit, our dental team will remove the temporary bridge and permanently install your new bridge. Adjustments will be made as necessary ensuring the perfect fit, and what is most comfortable for you. Town Center Dental is here to provide information and discuss a treatment plan that is right for you. Call us at 636-273-5866. |
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