Dental Bridges
Dental bridges replace missing teeth. They can restore chewing function, enhance your appearance and improve your oral health. A dental bridge consists of crowns (that fit over your natural teeth on either side of the space) and artificial teeth that “bridge the gap” in your smile.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridges
Also known as fixed bridges, traditional bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. The procedure involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic, or a false tooth, in between. Fixed bridges are the most common type of dental bridges and are made out of porcelain zirconia and finalized to a ceramic complexion.
Cantilever Bridges
These bridges are used in areas of the mouth that are under minimal stress. Cantilever bridges are recommended when there are teeth on only one side of the open space.
The Procedure
First step
The adjacent teeth must be prepared. This involves removing some of the enamel to allow room for the crown to be placed over them.
Second step
Impressions of the teeth are made. These will be sent to a laboratory so a bridge, a false tooth or pontic, and crowns can be created to fit the unique configuration of the patient‘s mouth. During the 1 to 2 weeks while the bridge is being manufactured, the patient will be given a temporary dental bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Third step
During the next dental visit, the temporary bridge will be removed and replaced with the new, permanent bridge. The doctor will make sure the bridge fits properly and cement it to the teeth.