A Dental Bridge Literally Bridges the Gap Between Teeth
A bridge may be the best solution when you are missing one or more teeth.
A bridge uses the surrounding healthy teeth, known as abutments, to support the false replacement tooth or teeth, called a pontic. Abutments, which are your healthy teeth, will require crowns in order to stabilize them and make them strong enough to support the pontic.
To place the crowns, a layer of tooth enamel is removed to provide a snug fit for the crown that is then placed over the tooth. Once this is done, you are ready for your new bridge.
The number of crowns you need will all depend on how many teeth you are missing.
Just one missing tooth means you will need three crowns to support your bridge – two pontics and one abutment. Together, they will create a three-unit bridge.
To determine the best course of action for your situation, Dr. Hicks and team will consider:
- How many teeth are missing
- The location of missing teeth
- The amount of support given from each abutment tooth
- The amount of bone left below the surface in the root
- The size and length of the root for each tooth
Your bridgework will likely be split between two appointments. Your custom bridge will be made in our on-site laboratory based on 3D images of your mouth that we capture during your first appointment.
We will give you a temporary bridge while your permanent one is being made. At your second appointment, we will cement your permanent bridge into place. Anesthesia will be provided to minimize any discomfort.
After you receive your bridge, expect a short adjustment period. After a few days, you should feel comfortable with the bridge.
One of the best ways to care for your dental bridge is to keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong. With good oral hygiene, you can keep your dental bridge for 5 to 10 years. Our team will review with you an at-home routine to keep your bridge healthy. We also may ask you to come in for follow-up appointments to ensure that your bridge is working properly.