A dental bridge lives up to its name because it bridges the gap between missing teeth so you can chew and speak more normally again. It also helps keep other teeth from shifting position and helps you maintain a proper bite.
What is a dental bridge?
When a dentist uses a bridge to replace a missing tooth, he puts crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap and creates a false tooth to go in between the crowned teeth. The false tooth can be made from different materials, such as porcelain or ceramic. The most common type of bridge is called a traditional bridge and has porcelain fused to ceramics or metal.
A Maryland bridge or resin-bonded bridge is another type of bridge. It consists either of porcelain fused to meal or plastic teeth and gums held together by a porcelain or metal framework. Typically, your dentist bonds the metal or porcelain wings on one side of the bridge to your teeth.
What is the process for getting dental bridges?
The first visit usually involves preparing the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. Your dentist will remove some of the enamel from the tooth to create room for a crown to be placed over the tooth. Then he takes impressions of your teeth and sends it to the dental lab so the lab can make the crowns, false tooth and bridge. Until your new bridge is ready, your dentist typically fits you with a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth and gums. (WebMD)
During the next visit, your dentist removes the temporary bridge and fits you with the new bridge and makes adjustments as needed. If your dental bridge is a fixed bridge, your dentist may temporarily cement it in place to make sure it fits properly. After a few weeks he can cement it permanently in place.
Do You Have Questions About Bridges or Other Dental Treatments?
Dr. Baker is glad to answer your questions and explain the dental treatment that best suits your needs.