Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges (or crowns) are fixed, non-removable appliances that can be an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
In our office, we use porcelain bridges that closely resemble your natural teeth. The bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth and are attached to artificial teeth, which fill the gap created by the missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and with proper care, will last many years. They may at some point need to be replaced due to normal wear or recurrent decay if not properly maintained.
Reasons for a Fixed Bridge
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance
Maintain facial shape
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Restore chewing and speaking ability
Restore your smile
Fill space of missing teeth
What Does a Dental Bridge Involve?
Getting a bridge will require two or more visits. During your first visit, the anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to allow for a crown while the teeth are numb. An impression is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. A temporary bridge will be made for you to wear for the next couple of weeks while your bridge is being made.
During your second visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and your teeth will be cleaned and prepared for your permanent bridge. The permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve the proper fit.
Care instructions will be given to you in order to ensure that you enjoy your permanent bridge for years to come. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
Post-Op Instructions
It is important to follow instructions after you have oral surgery to ensure proper healing and to avoid complications. As a rule of thumb, you should always wait two hours after surgery before eating to let the anesthesia wear off. Trying to eat before this could result in soft tissue damage because you are not able to feel all of your mouth. The instructions found below are guidelines. After your surgery the doctor or dental assistant will give you full instructions on how to properly recover from surgery.
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural tooth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush and floss regularly.