Bridges can restore your ability to chew and speak properly, while also helping to maintain the structure of your mouth and preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting into the empty space left by missing teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of bridges, and your dentist will choose the one that best suits your needs:
1. Traditional Bridge:
The most common type, it involves creating crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and attaching a false tooth or teeth in between.
2. Cantilever Bridge:
Used when there are only teeth on one side of the missing tooth, the bridge is supported by a crown attached to just one adjacent tooth.
3. Maryland Bridge:
This type uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, which requires less alteration to the natural teeth.
4. Implant-Supported Bridge:
Instead of using natural teeth for support, dental implants are used to hold the bridge in place, providing a more stable and long-lasting solution.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Restores function:
Bridges help restore the ability to chew, speak, and smile comfortably.
Improves appearance:
By filling the gap left by missing teeth, bridges provide a more complete, natural-looking smile.
Maintains oral health:
Prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting into the empty space and causing misalignment or bite problems.
Permanent and durable:
Unlike removable dentures, bridges are fixed and require less maintenance.
The Bridge Procedure
The process for getting a dental bridge typically involves two visits:
First Visit – Tooth Preparation and Scanning:
- The dentist prepares the adjacent teeth by removing a small portion of enamel to create room for the crowns that will anchor the bridge.
- 3D Scanning – Say goodbye to gunky dental impressions! Our state of the art 3D scanner is used to scan the tooth. The images are sent directly to the laboratory where a 3D model is printed, and the bridge can be digitally designed with high precision. A temporary bridge is often placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.
Second Visit – Fitting the Permanent Bridge:
- After the permanent bridge is created (which may take a couple of weeks), the dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments.
- Once the bridge fits properly, it will be cemented or bonded into place, completing the process.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Daily cleaning:
Proper hygiene is essential to prevent issues like bad breath and gum disease. Since you cannot reach under the bridge with a regular toothbrush, you will be shown you how to use an interdental brush or special bridge or implant floss to clean under the false teeth.
Regular check-ups and hygienist visits:
Just like your natural teeth, your bridge will require routine dental and hygienist visits to ensure it remains in good condition.
