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Dental Bridges
Restoring Your Smile With A Dental Bridge
When a tooth has been lost, and healthy teeth are located on both sides of the newly missing tooth or teeth, then a fixed bridge is a treatment option. Bridgework spans the space of the missing tooth and requires crowns to be placed over healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth; these healthy teeth are referred to as abutment teeth. The two crowned abutment teeth become supports for a third crown placed in between them; that third crown is referred to as a pontic. If more than one tooth is missing, more crowns will be needed to bridge the gap between the abutment teeth.
Engineering and designing the bridge requires an understanding of how to replace teeth, as well as the biology of the supporting gum and bone tissue.
What to Expect With A Bridge Procedure
Dental Bridges usually require at least two appointments to complete. The first appointment is used to prepare and temporize the teeth. The second appointment is the delivery appointment to adjust and cement the fixed bridge in place.
Caring for Your Crowns & Bridgework
Crowns and bridgework require the same conscientious care as your natural teeth. Be sure to brush and floss between all of your teeth — restored and natural — every day to reduce the buildup of dental plaque. While a bridge is a restorative procedure that aims to restore your smile, they are more delicate than your natural teeth, which means you should be more careful and mindful of them. If you have a grinding habit, wearing a nightguard would be a good idea to protect your teeth and your investment.
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