Dental Bridges

What are dental bridges?

A bridge is a dental restoration which replaces one or more natural missing teeth, thereby “bridging” the space between two teeth. There are two types of bridges – fixed and removable. Fixed bridges are cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist. On the other hand, you can take out a removable bridge for cleaning. Removable bridges, while less expensive, may not be as desirable as fixed bridges and are not generally as stable.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

If you are missing any teeth and are committed to maintaining good oral health, you may be a good candidate for a bridge. A bridge is the most natural long-term choice to fill the space in your mouth left by missing teeth. A bridge is placed for a number of reasons:

• Helps restore and maintain the natural bite
• Prevents unnatural stress on other teeth
• Helps keep opposing teeth in their proper place
• Prevents shifting and tilting of adjacent teeth
• Helps prevent further tooth decay and gum disease that can cause tooth loss
• Maximizes your smile, speech and chewing function
• Safeguards your appearance by preventing the collapse of your facial features that can cause premature wrinkling and age lines

How is a bridge attached?

Several steps are involved in placing a bridge and usually at least two visits are necessary. First we will prepare the teeth that will act as anchors. A false tooth (called a pontic) replaces the lost tooth. The pontic is attached to the crowns (restorations that cover a tooth). An impression is made to provide an exact model of the prepared teeth. A laboratory technician will then make the bridge from the model of the prepared tooth.

A temporary bridge is placed while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. When the permanent bridge is ready, we will place the bridge after all necessary adjustments have been made. The bridge is then cemented into place.

The total treatment time is usually between three and four weeks, depending on the type of bridge.

How do I take care of my bridge?

It is very important to keep your remaining teeth healthy. Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners (specially shaped brushes) is especially important when you have bridgework. These are important tools to remove plaque from around the bridge area where the gum meets the tooth. When plaque accumulates at the gum line, it can cause dental decay or gum disease. To prevent damaging or fracturing the bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other hard objects. You also want to avoid grinding your teeth.

A bridge can lose its support if the teeth or the bone that holds it becomes damaged by dental disease. Be especially careful to clean the areas under, around and between the bridge and your natural teeth. Dental floss threaders and special brushes can help you reach these areas. It is also important to visit our office regularly.

Remember the ultimate success or failure of a fixed bridge depends on its foundation. Help keep your gums and remaining teeth healthy. Your dental health and your appearance are worth the effort!