|
Dental Bridges
What is a bridge?
Dental bridges are a traditional solution to replacing missing teeth. Before the
advent of dental implant technology, bridgework was the most popular way to replace
missing teeth. The procedure is still commonly used because many patients still prefer
to opt for a dental bridge instead of an implant.
Who is a candidate for a bridge?
Candidates with very healthy and strong anchor teeth can be recommended for dental bridges.
A bridge may be recommended if you’re missing one or more teeth. Gaps left by missing
teeth eventually cause the remaining teeth to rotate or shift into the empty spaces,
resulting in a bad bite. The imbalance caused by missing teeth can also lead to gum
disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Another important consideration for many patients is the cost involved in bridgework
as compared to a dental implant. For the cost-conscious patient, a dental bridge may be
a better option because it can be less expensive than an implant. However, the patient
should also understand that the longevity of a dental implant is usually much better
than that of a bridge. Therefore, in the long run, an implant may become more cost
effective. From a functional and aesthetics perspective too, an implant is usually
a better option than a bridge.
What does it involve?
Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space where
the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or implants surrounding
the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A
replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments.
As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. Your dentist can help you decide
which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic
considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the color of your
natural teeth.
Before either a crown or a bridge can be made, the tooth (or teeth) must be reduced in size
so that the crown or bridge will fit over it properly. After reducing the tooth/teeth, your
dentist will take an impression to provide an exact mold for the crown or bridge. If porcelain
is to be used, your dentist will determine the correct shade for the crown or bridge to match
the color of your existing teeth.
Using this impression, a dental lab then makes your crown or bridge, in the material your
dentist specifies. A temporary crown or bridge will be put in place to cover the prepared
tooth while the permanent crown or bridge is being made. When the permanent crown or bridge
is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented
over your prepared tooth or teeth.
How long will the bridge last?
While crowns and bridges can last a lifetime, they do sometimes come loose or fall out.
There are a number of variables that can affect bridge longevity, though it is not uncommon
for a dental bridge to last for 5 to 20 years. The most important step you can take to ensure
the longevity of your crown or bridge is to practice good oral hygiene. A bridge can lose its
support if a tooth or bone holding it in place is damaged by dental disease. Keep your gums
and teeth healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Also
see your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups and professional
cleanings.
To prevent damage to your new crown or bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, ice or other
hard objects.
What about aftercare?
After your dental bridge has been cemented into place, your dentist will provide you with
hygiene information to maintain the performance and longevity of your restoration, along
with the health of your teeth and gums. A special bridge floss will allow you to properly
and thoroughly floss the areas surrounding your bridge and between the pontic and underlying
gum tissue. It should be used daily to prevent the build-up of plaque and bacteria. Proper
brushing with fluoride toothpaste should be performed at least twice each day.
|
