A dental bridge is a prosthetic composed of a false tooth (pontic) and two anchoring dental crowns (abutments). The crowns are fixed to the teeth on either side of a gap, anchoring the pontic in place of the missing tooth. The dental bridge is so called because it "bridges" this gap. Although the pontic is secured with dental cement to prevent the buildup of bacteria between the prosthetic and the gums, there is no physical connection between the jawbone and the false tooth. Though bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including silver amalgam or gold, they are commonly made from porcelain for aesthetic considerations. Dental bridges are safe and very effective replacement solution for patients with missing teeth. There are several types of dental bridges that can be used in patients. You can consult our emergency dentist to find out which dental bridge type is right for you.
Is a dental bridge suitable for you?
Anyone who is missing one or more teeth is a candidate for a dental bridge. The neighboring teeth and gum tissue should be generally healthy, as they will serve as the base for the replacement prosthetic. Though a dental implant can also be used to treat a missing tooth, individuals who are hesitant to undergo oral surgery may find that dental bridges better suit their needs. Unlike a dental implant, the placement of a bridge does not require oral surgery. Though the anchoring teeth are modified to receive the abutment crowns, no drilling of the gum or bone tissue is needed for the placement of a bridge.
Are you prepared for having a dental bridge?
There is a multi-step process for placing dental bridges. If you are missing one or more teeth and are considering a solution, dental bridges may be right for you. However, you should be willing to commit to the following procedure:
- Preparation of the Teeth: A dental bridge is attached to existing teeth on either side of the gap being treated. These teeth must be prepared so that they can receive the abutment crowns. In order to provide space for the crowns – which are tooth-shaped prosthetics that fully encapsulate existing teeth – and to ensure a suitable bonding surface, the teeth on both side of the gap must be resized. This step is permanent; though the crowns can be replaced if necessary, they cannot be removed afterwards.
- Taking an Impression of the Teeth: Once the surrounding teeth have been adequately modified so that the crowns can be placed on them, an impression will be made. Once this impression has been taken, it will be used to design and fabricate your dental bridge. Your prosthetic can be fabricated in a dental laboratory (Emergency dentist London is right next to one).
- Placing a Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge will be put in its place to serve as a placeholder. This temporary bridge will provide you with the functionality and appearance of your permanent prosthetic, and help to protect the teeth that have been reshaped against damage or decay.
- Receiving Your Permanent Dental Bridge: Once your dental bridge has been made, you will return to our dental clinic to have your temporary prosthetic removed and your permanent bridge placed. The crowns will be securely anchored to the teeth on both side of the gap with dental cement, and the pontic will be secured to the gum tissue to prevent bacterial infection.
Benefits of having a dental bridge
- Reduces risk of bone loss
- Reduces risk of periodontal disease
- Reduces risk of tooth decay
- Prevents movement of remaining teeth
- Prevents TMJ disorder
- Improves bite problems
- Improves problems with speech
- Increases stability as compared to partial dentures
- Increases comfort
- Improves appearance
- Improves self-confidence
- Provides additional support for the facial structure
- Provides the ability to chew the foods that you like
- Typically last 10 years or more
More about dental bridges on WebMD.
You can get more information about bridge prices on our prices page.
