Dental Bridges

What is a Dental Bridge?

A Bridge is a custom, fixed-prosthetic device anchored to neighboring teeth that replaces one or more missing teeth. When a lost tooth is replaced with bridgework, the teeth on either side of the missing one are prepared as crowns to serve as abutments or retainers to hold the replacement tooth, otherwise known as pontic, in place. Crowns and bridges are most commonly prepared from high quality materials such as semi-precious or precious metals, porcelain, or a fused combination of the two. Aesthetics, function, and tissue compatibility are considered when selecting the material most suitable for you.

What is the process involved with getting a Bridge?

The bridge process is completed in two appointments. During the first visit for getting a dental bridge, the retainer teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Next, 3D digital impressions of the teeth are made, which serve as a virtual model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by a trusted dental lab. We will make a temporary bridge for you to wear to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the bridge is being made that is not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing.

During the second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new bridge will be fitted and adjusted, as necessary, to achieve a proper fit. Once all of the expectations of your new bridge are met, we can permanently cement your new bridge.

Are there any risks involved?

The short answer is no. Just like with getting a new crown, you may experience some mild temperature sensitivity after placing your new bridge. This sensitivity may last from a few days to a few weeks, but slowly dissipating over time. The difference between a bridge and a crown is that a crown is not connected to adjacent teeth, whereas a bridge can be connected to one or more teeth, depending on how many teeth are being replaced.

To learn more about dental bridges, or to see if a dental bridge could be right for you, give us a call at 805-568-3733