Dental Bridges

What are dental bridges?

A dental bridge can be an excellent restorative solution for patients who are missing a few teeth. Traditional dental bridges consist of crowns that fit over your natural teeth on either side of the gap and artificial teeth that “bridge the gap.”  A dental bridge is fixed to your natural teeth and is not removable except by a dentist. 

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The artificial replacement teeth can also be attached to dental implants; it is sometimes possible to attach them to one tooth when needed. Replacing missing teeth is important for preventing bite, chewing, and jaw pain that can come from a missing tooth.   

What is the procedure like?

Before beginning a bridge procedure, the dentist will ensure that any decay or gum disease has been taken care of and will measure and inspect the area in order to size the bridge appropriately. 

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• The healthy teeth around the missing one/ones will be filed down in preparation for the bridge installation. 

• The dentist will take a mold of the area and send it off to a lab to create a bridge made just to fit your mouth. 

• The bridge will be placed and secured by either dental cement or through a dental implant. 

How long does it take to recover from the procedure?

After the anesthesia wears off from your dental bridge procedure, you may experience some soreness and a little bleeding from your gums. This soreness should last only a few days, and you may feel sensitive to hot and cold during this time as well. 

How can I care for my dental bridge?

Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Here are some tips to keep your bridge in good condition:

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• Brush and floss daily.

• Use a nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste.

• Clean underneath your bridge every day using floss threaders or interproximal brushes (small brushes used to go in between the teeth).

• Avoid biting hard or sticky foods and eating sugary foods

• Avoid smoking

• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.