Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a prosthetic used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a series of crowns that are used to fill the gaps left by missing teeth.  The outer crowns on each side of the bridge are cemented over the teeth adjacent to the gap and a false tooth fits into the gap.

Dental bridges have the following benefits:

• Missing teeth cause the neighboring teeth to tilt or shift into the gaps left by them. This affects a person's bite and causes other orthodontic issues. Bridges replace such missing teeth and close the gaps. 
• If you have a missing tooth, the tooth present opposite to it, on the opposite jaw, starts to extrude and move into the empty space. It causes pain, damage, and joint problems. Bridges replace missing teeth and prevent the opposite teeth from extruding out.
• Bridges restore the aesthetic beauty of your smile by closing the unsightly gaps.
• They restore your ability to chew and talk properly.
• Bridges replace missing teeth and hence help in maintaining the contour of your face.
• What are the different types of dental bridges?

The different types of dental bridges are as follows:

1. Traditional dental bridges

Traditional bridges are the most popularly used dental bridges. They comprise one or more artificial teeth that are held in place by dental crowns cemented on to adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap. To get a traditional bridge you need to have teeth on both the sides of the gap. Since they are strongly anchored on both sides, they are strong enough to replace molars also. 

2. Cantilever bridges

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but are held in place by a single crown on only one side. You can get a cantilever bridge if you have natural teeth only on one side of the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. 

3. Maryland bridges

Maryland bridges provide a conservative alternative to traditional bridges. They use an artificial tooth (pontic) which is held in place by a metal framework. The metal framework is bonded to the back of the teeth adjacent to the gap. Placement of a Maryland bridge does not require the filing of the enamel and is a non-invasive dental restoration technique.

How is a dental bridge placed?

A dental bridge can be successfully placed in two appointments and four simple steps.

Appointment 1

Step 1

Placement of a dental bridge is a non-surgical procedure and causes no pain but your dentist will numb the area to be treated using a local anesthetic. This is done to protect you from any discomfort that can be caused during the procedure. 

Step 2

The teeth adjacent to the gap left by missing tooth are filed down to make room for the crowns. Crowns are placed on the adjacent teeth to anchor the bridge in place. 

Step 3

Impressions of your teeth are taken to custom-fabricate the crowns. These crowns are made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental lab and act as a guide for the technicians who will create your bridge. A temporary bridge will be placed in your mouth to protect the newly prepared teeth. You will be sent home with the temporary bridge and will be asked to return when the final bridge is ready.

Appointment 2

Step 4

When your final bridge is ready, you will be asked to visit our office again. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and replace it with the permanent bridge.

We, at LaCanne Family Dental, Menominee, provide for all your needs pertaining to dental services and routine exams. Our dentists with their entire team persist to present you with exceptional treatment that enhances and maintains the beauty of your smile.

If you have any further question, queries or dental emergencies and are looking for an accomplished dentist, feel free to contact us at (906) 352-4100 to schedule an appointment.