Bridges Specialist

What are bridges?

Bridges are custom dental restorations that fill a gap in your smile. They have an artificial tooth and two crowns that your dentist bonds to the healthy abutment teeth on either side of the gap. 

Missing permanent teeth increases the risk of potentially serious oral health problems like gum recession and bone loss. By getting a bridge, it’s possible to avoid these and other issues.

What are the advantages of dental bridges?

Dental bridges provide a variety of advantages, including:

• A beautiful, healthy smile
• Improved chewing and biting abilities
• Improved oral health
• Durability

Bridges also prevent your remaining teeth from moving out of position, allowing for proper alignment. 

What does getting a bridge involve?

At Esthetic Partners Dental Group, getting a bridge takes two appointments:

First appointment

At your first appointment, the team conducts an oral exam and asks about your goals for treatment. Then, they take oral X-rays to assess the health of your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar bone. 

If your provider determines you’ll benefit from a bridge, they administer a local anesthetic and prepare the two teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. To do this, they remove a thin layer of enamel from the top and sides to receive a crown.

After preparing the abutment teeth, your provider takes digital impressions and sends them to a dental laboratory. The laboratory uses your impressions to manufacture a custom bridge that fits perfectly.

Second appointment

When the lab completes your bridge, you return to the office. Your provider once again administers a local anesthetic, lines up the bridge, and bonds the crowns to your healthy abutment teeth. After placing the crown, they make adjustments as necessary and provide you with care instructions.

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges last five to 15 years on average, but it’s possible to extend their lifespan with good oral hygiene. The team at Esthetic Partners Dental Group recommends brushing and flossing daily and visiting the nearest office at least two times a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning.

To prevent damage to your bridge, wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports like football or hockey. In addition, avoid bad habits like chewing on ice cubes or opening objects with your teeth.

To learn more about bridges, make an appointment at Esthetic Partners Dental Group by calling the nearest office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff, or by clicking the online booking tool today.