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bridges

what is the purpose of a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Think of it as a crown connected to one or more floating teeth (pontic), connected to another crown. The crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth, which serve as anchors for the bridge. Dental bridges are typically made of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, and can improve the appearance and function of the mouth by filling gaps caused by missing teeth. They are a common dental solution that can help restore your ability to eat and speak properly, while also preventing your remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

How the treatment process works

  • We Prepare the teeth

    After numbing your teeth, your dentist will remove and repair any damaged portion of your teeth, and shape the teeth for a bridge impression. A digital scan or dental putty will be used to take the bridge impression, which will be sent to the lab to fabricate your bridge.

  • Temporary Bridge is applied

    Your provider will make a temporary bridge for you to wear while your permanent bridge is being made in the lab. This will protect your teeth while awaiting the arrival of your new bridge.

  • Final Bridge is Applied

    At your next appointment, your provider will remove your temporary bridge and try on your new bridge to check its custom fit into your mouth. An x-ray is typically taken, the shade is checked, and once approved your final bridge is cemented into place. Your provider may recommend supplemental home care recommendations like using floss threaders or a Waterpik to clean underneath your new bridge.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

DENTAL BRIDGE

  • The most commonly used type of bridge is made out of a ceramic, which is an aesthetic tooth colored material. There are different types of ceramic bridges for different dental situations, but all look and appear similar to natural teeth.

  • A gold bridge is actually a bridge made of multiple metals, gold being one of them. They are typically more expensive than a tooth colored bridge, but are great restorations as well.