Gaps in your smile can affect your oral health and may even lower your quality of life. Dental bridges are an effective way to restore missing teeth. Our doctors approach the procedure with compassion, expertise and personalized care so that treatment is worry-free and you’re able to smile, laugh and talk confidently while enjoying the function you once had.
What are Dental Bridges and What are They Made of?
Dental bridges are prosthetics created when two or more crowns are placed on the existing teeth next to a gap. The gap is filled with a false tooth, called a pontic, that’s placed between these abutment teeth. The crowns and implant form what is known as a “dental bridge.” It allows someone who is missing a tooth, or multiple teeth, to have their full smile restored.
Dental bridges can be crafted from several different materials. The most common is porcelain, which is fused onto metal or ceramic. At MDCS, our dental bridges have a lifelike, natural appearance so restorations are undetectable.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Before the bridge is put in, your abutment teeth are prepared. We recontour them by removing some of the surface enamel to make room for the crowns. Then, casts are taken to be used as a mold for the pontic and dental bridge. This ensures it fits perfectly against your abutment teeth and looks and feels natural. While the permanent piece is being created in the lab, we’ll use temporary restorations to protect your teeth. When the bridge is ready, your dentist will check that it fits and your bite alignment feels right. Finally, it will be cemented onto your abutment teeth.
Taking care of your dental bridge is as simple as brushing and flossing regularly to keep teeth clean and prevent cavities from forming in the crowned teeth. Dr. Gutierrez can recommend dental hygiene products if you’re not sure what to use. With proper care, bridges can last 10 years or more. Getting a dental bridge is a simple procedure that will make a drastic difference in how you look and feel about yourself. There’s no time like the present – show off that joyous smile!
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A dental bridge can restore your smile if you’re missing one or more teeth.
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When cared for properly, a dental bridge may last 10 years or longer.
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An estimated 15 million Americans have a crown or bridge to replace missing teeth.
Before & After
We offer gentle, state-of-the-art restorative dentistry for all of your smile concerns.
