A dental bridge is a permanent, non-removable device, and is an excellent solution to replace missing teeth very commonly used by a dentist.
Reasons for needing a dental bridge include:
• Filling a space in the mouth created by missing teeth.
• Preserving correct facial shape.
• Avoiding having remaining teeth from drifting out of their normal position in the mouth.
• Improving chewing and talking ability.
• Restoring the best appearance of your smile.
• Upgrading from a detachable partial denture to a permanent solution.
When a tooth is missing, or it is so badly decayed that it needs to be extracted, dental bridges offer an economical and comfortable solution. Dental bridges consist of a false tooth or teeth used to bridge a gap created by one or multiple missing teeth. A bridge is put in place and is connected to an existing tooth on either side of the gap.
Dental bridges can also be attached from below by dental implants, which are replacement tooth roots, bonded to the jawbone.
There are many forms of dental bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular situation. The “traditional bridge” is considered the most usual kind and is generally made from porcelain attached to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most used because they most closely resemble your regular teeth. This type of bridge consists of two crowns placed over two anchoring teeth, and are affixed to artificial teeth called pontics, which fill the space caused by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are durable and can last for many years, but they could require replacement or being re-cemented because of typical wear.
What is involved in getting a dental bridge?
Getting a dental bridge usually requires two or more visits. After the area of the mouth has been numbed, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing part of enamel to allow for a crown. Then a very precise impression is made of the teeth which is sent to a dental laboratory which will construct the bridge. Also, a short-term bridge will be made to be worn by the patient for several weeks until their next appointment, when the permanent bridge is installed.
On your second appointment, the permanent bridge will be very carefully examined, modified if needed, and cemented to obtain a correct fit.