Dental Bridges

What Are Bridges?

Dental bridges are natural-looking tooth replacements that help maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth. Fixed bridges are cemented to the existing teeth and do not come out. Removable bridges can be taken out.

A dental bridge can be used to:

  • Replace missing teeth
  • Restore your smile
  • Restore your ability to bite and chew
  • Improve your speech

Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

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Types Of Dental Bridges

There are three main types of bridges:

  • Traditional bridges, also known as fixed bridges, are used to replace one or more missing teeth. The procedure involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (false tooth) in between. Unlike dentures, fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth. These are the most common type of dental bridge and are made either of porcelain fused to metal or of ceramics.
  • Resin bonded bridges, also known as Maryland bonded bridges, are primarily used for your front teeth. They are less expensive than fixed bridges and are best when the teeth are healthy and do not have any large fillings. A false tooth is fused with resin to metal bands that are bonded to the adjacent teeth and hidden from view. Resin bonded bridges require minimal preparation of the adjacent teeth.
  • Cantilever bridges are used in areas of your mouth that are under low amounts of stress, such as your front teeth. Cantilever bridges are recommended when there are teeth on only one side of the open space.

Dental Bridge Procedure

First, the adjacent teeth must be prepared. This involves removing some of the enamel to allow room for the crown to be placed over them.

Next, impressions of your teeth are made. These will be sent to a laboratory so we can create the bridge, pontic, and crowns to fit your unique mouth. This may take 1 to 2 weeks. While your bridge is being made, you will be given a temporary dental bridge to protect the exposed teeth. Dr. Stevens uses a local dental laboratory in Upland, CA to fabricate the Bridge.

On your next visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and replaced with the new, permanent bridge. Your doctor will make sure the bridge fits properly and then cement it to your teeth.  You should start noticing a difference when you speak, as your speech will become clearer.

Results Of Dental Bridge

With good oral hygiene, you can expect your dental bridge to last from 5 to 15 years, sometimes longer. You must remember to practice proper oral hygiene to prevent the build-up of bacteria on your teeth and gums.

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