What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge can replace one or more lost teeth by using artificial (fake) teeth to bridge the gap. A bridge is often comprised of crowns that are cemented in place on each side of the missing tooth or teeth that are supporting the pontic (fake tooth).
Who needs a dental bridge?
If you have a lost tooth or teeth, dental bridges Smithfield VA may be able to help. Tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma are the three most frequent causes of lost teeth. Or perhaps you were born without teeth due to a congenital disorder. You need healthy teeth on either side of the missing teeth in order to acquire a dental bridge.
What does a dental bridge look like?
A typical dental bridge consists of:
Abutment teeth: A dental professional places two crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap. Your natural teeth or dental implants may serve as these supporting or anchoring teeth.
Pontics: This artificial tooth or teeth bridges the space and fastens to the crowns.
What types of dental bridges are available?
There are four primary types of bridges:
Traditional fixed bridge: This type of bridge is most prevalent. It has one, two, or more connected filler teeth, as well as one or more crowns. The bridge is secured by the crowns. Metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramics are the usual materials used to make bridges.
Cantilever bridge: In this style of bridge, the pontic is attached to just one tooth serving as the abutment. If you only have teeth on one side of the gap, this is occasionally an option for you.
If your front teeth are missing, a Maryland dental bridge (also known as a resin-bonded bridge) can be an option for you. It is supported by a framework and made of porcelain bonded to metal or ceramic teeth. Each side of the bridge has wings that are attached to your natural teeth.
An “implant supported bridge” is a fixed bridge that is supported by implants as opposed to being glued to teeth like a “conventional fixed bridge.”
What happens during a procedure for a traditional dental bridge?
Typically, you’ll require at least two appointments:
Preparation of the abutment teeth: During your initial visit, your doctor will reshape the abutment teeth. To make way for the crown, some of the enamel and dentin will be removed.
Impressions: Your dentist takes digital scans of your teeth or takes impressions of them. Your bridge, fake teeth, and crowns are all made in a dental laboratory using the mould or scan as a model. While the lab is making your bridge, you will have a temporary bridge to cover the exposed parts in your mouth.
Placement of the permanent bridge: During your second visit, your doctor will replace the temporary bridge with the new one. Your supplier will carefully examine the bridge and make any modifications that are required.
What are the advantages of this procedure?
A dental bridge can:
Help your bite.
Prevent remaining teeth from moving out of place.
Restore your ability to chew and speak.
Restore your smile.
Do dental bridges have any risks or complications?
If you care for your bridge Smithfield VA properly, it can last many years without complications. The bridge may fail if the surrounding teeth decay or if the cement deteriorates. If the bridge comes loose and the supporting teeth are still healthy and intact, your provider may be able to re-attach it with new cement.