Dental Bridge Procedure
Ritter and Ramsey General and Cosmetic Dentistry service Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and all of Palm Beach County, Florida.
A Dental Bridge gets its name as it "bridges the gap" between two teeth when there's missing tooth in the center. In the dental cosmetic industry, using this procedure to fill in a gap (or multiple gaps) is an incredibly popular treatment. All dental professionals recommend replacing missing or extracted teeth as it can pose negative issues or risks down the line that could negatively affect the neighboring teeth.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is made up of two or more dental crowns that anchor the fabricated tooth in the center. The dental crowns are fitted over the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap, called the abutment teeth. These teeth act like anchors that hold the center (restoration tooth), called the pontic. Pontics come in a variety of materials such as porcelain, gold, and metal alloys or a combination of the three materials. Porcelain is the most popular material used in the dental cosmetic industry in general. It mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth. It also provides the strength needed to withstand a natural bite force.
What Is The Dental Bridge Procedure?
Before any work starts, the dentist will first have a consultation about the procedure with the patient. The steps of the procedure are discussed as well as the finances, anesthetic options, timelines, insurance coverage, restoration materials, and much more. A proper check-up will proceed to further ensure the right treatment is in play.
Once all the of the necessary decisions listed above have been made, the first appointment will be next. The dentist will first ensure the patient is numb by administering a local anesthetic to the necessary area. The dentist will then carefully contour the neighboring teeth to prep them to receive the dental crowns. This will involve removing all enamel layers from the teeth. The neighboring teeth must be filled down to provide enough room for the dental crowns to fit over. If they are not contoured, these teeth will appear much bulkier than all other teeth and will look unnatural.
When the enamel is removed, the dentist will take a mold of the patient's teeth and send it to their dental lab. The lab will use this mold to create a custom-made dental bridge that will fit in the appropriate space perfectly.
The dentist will add temporary crowns to the newly contoured teeth. When the custom-made permanent dental bridge is made (which can take up to two weeks), the dentist will have the patient come back into the office for the placement.
During the second visit, a local anesthetic may be applied again (this is up to the patient). The temporary bridge is removed to make way for the permanent one. The new dental bridge is fitted into place, and adjustments are made to ensure the patient's bite feels natural with the new restoration.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- The function of your chewing ability will be restored
- Repairing the overall aesthetics of your smile
- Ensure no neighboring teeth will shift into the empty space
- Distribute the chewing force evenly between all teeth, which will stop the deterioration of the jaw
bone
The dentist will be sure to go over tips on how to properly clean the dental bridge. It's recommended to brush teeth twice a day and floss once daily. It is advised to visit your dentist twice a year to ensure a dental check-up and a deep clean.
Be sure to discuss with your dental professional for additional information. Remember, your oral health is the #1 goal in all dental procedures. Be sure to care for your teeth as you would your body.
Ritter and Ramsey team to provide the best in cosmetic and general dentistry procedures for you and your entire family, including dental bridges. Experience the difference, consult with Ritter and Ramsey today.
Interested in learning more about dental bridges? Read more on the differences between dental implants and bridges here!