What Is a Dental Bridge and Who Needs One?

Dental bridges, as the name implies, bridge the gap between missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns for teeth on one or both sides of the gap, abutment teeth (the anchoring teeth), and false tooth/teeth in between. Pontics, or false teeth, can be made of gold, porcelain, alloy, or a mixture of these materials. Implants or natural teeth hold these devices.

The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

On the first visit to get such a device, the dentist makes ready the abutment teeth. He reshapes these teeth by filing part of the enamel to provide space for a crown to be placed above them. He then makes impressions of the teeth to serve as a mold for the dental lab to utilize in making the bridge, crowns, and pontic. Meanwhile, he will make a temporary bridge to protect the teeth and gums that will be exposed while the final version is being made.

On the second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place it with the new metal/porcelain bridge, which will be examined and adjusted as needed to make it fit properly.  This may need multiple visits to check the bite and fit of the metal framework. This depends on every patient's case.  If it is a fixed dental bridge, the dentist may use temporary cement to ensure an appropriate fit for a few weeks. The device is then permanently cemented after a few weeks.

The Cost of Dental Bridges

When it comes to these devices, the costs vary depending on the type of bridge used and the part of the country where the procedure is carried.

The Longevity of Dental Bridges

These devices can be used from five to fifteen years and at times, even longer.  When the patient maintains proper oral hygiene and visits the dentist regularly, it is expected to have a life span of more than ten years.

Eating with a Dental Bridge

When missing teeth are replaced with a dental bridge, eating becomes much easier. However, if the person is not yet used to wearing the device, eating small pieces of soft foods would be helpful.

Speaking with a Dental Bridge

It's difficult to communicate clearly with missing teeth. On the other hand, utilizing a dental bridge with the anterior teeth properly connected allows the person to speak more clearly.

Caring for a Dental Bridge

The remaining teeth must remain healthy and strong since the outcome of the bridge (depending on the type chosen) relies on the foundation that the surrounding teeth provide. Practicing good oral care that includes brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and using mouthwash regularly helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

It would be beneficial to ask advice from a dentist or dental hygienist on proper brushing and flossing. Regular cleaning will enable the dentist to diagnose problems right from the start when it is easier to treat. To get proper nutrition, it's also important to eat a well-balanced diet.

Over 20 years of Cosmetic Dentistry and 15 years serving Bakersfield, California, Dr. Krauss has performed thousands of complete smile restorations. Bakersfield Dentist, Dr. Krauss has incredible leadership and a commitment to dentistry is evident through his memberships in the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Kern County Dental Society. Do you need an experienced Dental Offices In Bakersfield? Come visit our site to discover more about our DDS Bakersfield CA!