Dental bridges are one of many tools that dentists use to help people enjoy full smiles and healthy oral functionality. At Soothing Dental, our dentists have extensive experience helping patients with a wide variety of dental bridge needs.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are essentially what they sound like! They bridge the gap that’s created when someone is missing one or more teeth.
● Dental bridges rely on crowns (two or more)
● The crowns go on the teeth on either side of the gap
● The two or more teeth that anchor the bridge are called abutment teeth
● A false tooth (or teeth) is placed in between the two anchor teeth
The false teeth replacement used in dental bridges can be made from lots of different materials. Some people opt for porcelain, others choose gold, and some prefer alloys. Each of these materials (and combinations of them) presents different benefits.
Are Dental Bridges Permanent?
Tooth bridges are not totally permanent. They need occasional replacement. They are permanently fixed in your mouth and require a dentist to remove.
How long will a dental bridge last?
How long a dental bridge lasts depends a lot on how you care for it. The average dental bridge will last about 5-10 years. Some bridges last 15 years or longer with great hygiene and care.
● Good hygiene and regular checkups usually mean that fixed bridges can last for over a decade
What Kinds of Conditions are Treated With Bridges?
Dental bridges commonly help people with a missing tooth or teeth, acting as a teeth replacement. Some of the most common causes of these include injury, gum disease, tooth decay, and congenital conditions. Bite problems, chewing difficulties, and pain can all (in the right cases) be treated with bridges.
How to Tell if You Need a Tooth Bridge
You’ll need the help of a dentist to determine whether you need a dental bridge. If you’re experiencing pain or difficulties because of missing teeth, it’s worth asking your dentist what they think.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Dental Bridge?
Depending on the need of the patient some bridges can be completed in one visit using our CEREC machine and 3D computer-aided design. If you’re a candidate for a same-day dental bridge Dr. Vinton creates a scan of your mouth and missing teeth. A digital digital model of the dental bridge is created and out in-house CEREC machine mills your new bridge in as little as 2 hours. You even have the opportunity to watch the crafting process while you wait in our office. When the new bridge is complete, we will permanently fix the new dental appliance into your mouth. The whole process can be completed is a single visit! If you are not a candidate for a same-day dental bridge Soothing Dental still provides a more traditional approach providing you the best possible care. In this type of situation getting a dental bridge takes place over the course of several office visits. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by:
● Removing some enamel to make room for a crown to be placed on top
● Taking impressions of the teeth
You will also receive a temporary tooth bridge to protect your exposed gums and teeth while your real bridge is made.
Your second visit is when the real magic happens! Your dentist will remove your temporary bridge and place the new one in the proper spot in your mouth. Sometimes, multiple follow-up visits are necessary to determine whether the bridge’s metal framework is properly adjusted.
The Cost of a Dental Bridge
It’s tough to estimate the cost of any dental procedure. The price of a dental bridge varies wildly from location to location– not to mention that prices fluctuate depending on what kind of bridge you need, too. Most dental insurance offers some coverage for bridges depending on the plan.
The Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges
There are advantages and disadvantages to dental bridges.
The pros
● Dental bridges can restore your smile
● They can also help people speak and chew
● Dental bridges help maintain the shape of your face
● Bridges distribute forces in your bite
● A bridge can also help keep teeth from drifting
The cons
● Bridges rely on abutment teeth for supports– if you don’t have the proper teeth for the procedure (or if they aren’t strong enough), a bridge might not be right for you
Dental bridges can help someone improve their appearance and their mouth’s functionality. If you have questions about dental bridges, or if you want to schedule your next dental appointment, our team can help. Reach out to Soothing Dental today to speak to a member of our staff.
Soothing Dental is a family dental practice that provides a luxury, relaxing, spa-like environment for the Midlothian community. We see patients of all ages!