Bridges are a type of dental restoration used to replace one or more adjacent, missing teeth. They are composed of one or more pontics (floating crowns) that are fused together and supported by dental crowns on either side. This allows the remaining teeth on either side of the gap to act as anchors for the pontics that make up the dental bridge. Besides the traditional dental bridge, there are different types of dental bridges, including cantilever, Maryland Bonded, and implant-supported bridge. A cantilever bridge can be used towards the back of the mouth and is only supported on one side. A Maryland bonded bridge uses a wire framework adhered to the back of surrounding teeth instead of dental crowns to support itself. Finally, implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants placed in the jawbone.
Did You Know?
Crowns and bridges are two common types of dental restorations used for restoring damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. When one or more dental crowns are fused together, then this is known as a dental bridge
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need a dental bridge?
You may need a bridge if you have one or more missing teeth surrounded by healthy teeth. Replacing missing teeth is important to maintain a proper bite, prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting, keep the opposing teeth from overgrowing, allow for proper eating and speaking, and to maintain the shape of your face. To determine if you need a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Morales of Desert Pearl Dentistry today.
What can I expect when having a dental bridge placed at Desert Pearl Dentistry?
To meet our high standard of care and keep you comfortable, dental anesthetics are used when having a crown placed at Desert Pearl Dentistry. Once your mouth is numb, Dr. Morales will begin by preparing the teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. Each tooth that is adjacent to this gap will need to be reduced in size and shaped to have a circumferential ledge at the gum line in order to have a crown placed. After the adjacent teeth have been properly prepared, the next step is to have a dental impression taken. This dental impression will be used by a state of the art dental laboratory in order to fabricate you a customized dental bridge.
Since your permanent bridge needs to be fabricated at a dental laboratory, you will need to return for a second appointment once your bridge has been completed. In the meantime, you will be fit with a temporary bridge. Temporary bridges are made from resin and are placed during the first appointment after the dental impression is taken. During your second appointment, the temporary bridge will be removed and replaced with your permanent bridge
Will I need to follow any special instructions after having a bridge placed?
Since dental anesthetics are used, it is very likely that your mouth will still be numb for about 1-3 hours after your appointment. During this time, you will need to take special care to not accidentally bite your tongue, cheeks, or lips until the anesthetic wears off. While wearing your temporary bridge, you will need to remember that it is not meant to last a long time. This means that it is more likely to fall off or break if exposed to extremely hard, sticky, or chewy foods. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid these foods and to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Once you have your permanent bridge placed, you can return to your usual diet. To care for your new bridge, be sure to brush twice a day, floss daily, and attend regular dental appointments and cleanings.
