Dental Bridges Specialist

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge replaces missing teeth to bridge the gap between the remaining teeth. Most bridges are fixed prosthetic devices – the dentist cements the bridge in place and only a dentist can remove it. A dental laboratory can make a bridge from porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these materials.

Why Get a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge can restore function and aesthetic beauty to a smile. Missing teeth interferes with the way a person bites, chews and talks. Having one or more missing teeth can also be embarrassing, especially when front teeth are missing.

What is the Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge requires at least two visits. Before a patient receives a dental bridge, a dentist must reduce the size of the two teeth that will serve as the anchors for the dental bridge so that the appliance will fit snugly over them. The dentist does this on the first visit by removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth. Next, the dentist makes an impression of the teeth, which will serve as the model a dental laboratory will use to make the bridge. The dentist will then make a temporary bridge to protect the patient’s teeth while the laboratory makes the bridge. 

The dentist removes this temporary bridge on the second visit, replacing it with the permanent prosthetic. The dentist checks and adjusts the position of the new bridge before cementing the new bridge in place. In many cases, the dentist will apply a temporary cement to secure the new bridge for a couple of weeks to allow an opportunity to adjust the bridge later, before cementing it in place forever. Bridges are strong and durable, providing function and beauty for a lifetime.