Dental Bridges
What are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a restorative option that is similar to a dental crown but larger in size.
Its main purpose is to replace areas of missing dentition in the mouth. Bridges are ideal for patients who aren’t good candidates for dental implants or for those who have already had implants placed. Bridges can easily last for years and even a few decades before replacement is recommended.
Why are Dental Bridges needed?
The most common reason for requiring a dental bridge is because you’re missing one or more of your natural teeth. The bridge is anchored onto two surrounding teeth and the middle part of the bridge is used to replace the tooth or teeth that are missing. Bridges can be smaller in size, replacing just a single tooth at a time, or they can be much larger, replacing two or more teeth with just one restoration.
Who is a good candidate for a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are ideal for patients who cannot have implants placed or for those who want a surgery-free alternative to replacing missing teeth. We will examine your teeth and determine if you might need a bridge. Alternatively, a new bridge may be needed if your current bridge is older and showing signs of wear. Your bridge can last for a few decades with proper care once it’s been placed.
What happens during the Dental Bridge procedure?
We will start by injecting a local anesthetic into the area being treated.
We then file down the two surrounding teeth so that they can hold onto the bridge securely. Impressions are taken of the area and used to craft your new fixed bridge. Your second appointment involves having you come into the office for the permanent bridge to be placed. We’ll make small adjustments to the bridge to ensure it fits and feels as comfortable as possible.
If you think you might need a dental bridge or want to replace an older one, call our Alvarado family dental office today and we will be happy to further assist you.