A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like, a literal bridge of prosthetic teeth, used to replace up to two missing teeth. Bridges are cemented to adjacent teeth and are typically made out of porcelain and metal materials. They are a permanent option for missing teeth and can be placed by Dr. Randy J. Greenberg in Wallingford, CT.
The Procedure
Similar to the procedure for
dental crowns, the dental bridge procedure requires up to three visits for completion. Here is a step by step overview:
Visit #1: The teeth on either side of the missing teeth or tooth act as abutments and are prepared for receiving dental crowns, which hold the dental bridge in place. This preparation includes the necessary reshaping of the teeth and removal of any excess enamel. Next, an impression of the area will be made in order to fabricate a custom bridge, which typically takes up to three weeks. You will be given a temporary bridge to wear until your next visit, to protect your exposed teeth and gums.
Visit #2: During your second visit, the condition of your tissue will be checked to ensure that your gums and teeth are healthy enough for cementation of the bridge. If the impression was not taken during the first visit due to inflamed tissue, then it will be done at this visit.
Visit #3: During your final visit, your custom dental bridge will be permanently cemented into place.
Partials
Partials are also used to replace missing teeth and are a more affordable option than dental bridges because they are removable, similar to a retainer. Commonly, they are referred to as Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs).
Why is it Important to Replace Missing Teeth with a Dental Bridge or Partial?
Missing teeth can negatively affect many different aspects of your oral health. Rectification with either bridges or partials, as well as
dental crowns, restores:
• esthetics and functionality
• shape of the mouth (inside and out)
• evenly distributed biting forces
If you are missing teeth, it is very important to your oral health that you have them replaced. To learn more about bridges and partials, contact Dr. Greenberg in Wallingford, CT today.