What Is the Process of Getting Dental Bridges?

Teeth are susceptible to wear and the effects of the aging process over time. Health and dental conditions also affect the teeth and can result in problems. While the situation may vary from one individual to the next, advanced decay and tooth loss are common. Dental bridges are a popular option for teeth restoration.

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices inserted into the mouth where a tooth or several teeth are missing. The bridge has a crown or cap on both ends that are connected to the adjacent natural teeth. The crown is installed in the space to hold the false tooth or set of teeth. This helps to fill the space where the natural tooth or teeth are missing. If you plan to get bridges, it is important to understand the procedure.

 

Considering Your Needs

The first step in the dental bridge procedure is determining what you need to determine the best treatment option. A bridge will help to treat tooth loss due to physical trauma or periodontal disease. Failing to replace missing teeth can cause bite distortions, crooked teeth, or gum disease. Once you determine you need bridges, you are ready for the next step.

 

Choosing the Bridge Type

There are several types of bridges, and you need to determine the right one for you. The three main options are traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bridges. The traditional bridge has a crown that is connected to both sides of the substitute or artificial tooth. The cantilever bridge consists of an artificial tooth connected to a single crown. The Maryland Bridge bonds the artificial tooth onto the natural teeth on each side.

 

Reshaping the Natural Teeth

After choosing the dental bridge that is right for you, the dentist will need to work on the existing teeth. The available natural teeth will need reshaping so that they can hold the crowns effectively. The dentist will anesthetize the gum tissue before reshaping each tooth. This involves either filing down or filling the teeth to allow them to hold the crown securely.

 

Temporary Bridge

After reshaping your natural teeth, the dentist will make impressions of the missing tooth or teeth. The impression will also include the surrounding teeth and helps create a customized bridge that will fit your mouth perfectly. While the impression is at the lab, you will get a temporary cement bridge to wear and secure the space until the permanent bridge is ready.

 

Permanent Bridge

When the permanent bridge is ready, you will go back to the dentist and have it installed. The custom-built bridge should fit snugly in the space. The bridge placement will include a fitting to ensure that it does not affect your bite alignment. The artificial teeth should look and feel natural.

It is vital to take good care of your bridge. With good care, your bridge can last more than 10 years. An oral routine of daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are essential to preventing the formation of cavities. If you decide that you need dental bridges, visit your dentist for a consultation.

 

To know more about dental bridges, visit Castro Valley Dentistry at our office in Castro Valley, California. You can also call (510) 674-0900 to book an appointment today.