What Is A Dental Bridge?

At My Dentist & Orthodontist in San Bernardino, we offer dental bridges as a reliable solution to restore normal chewing function and enhance your smile. Losing a tooth, whether due to decay, disease, or injury, can significantly impact your oral health and confidence. A bridge consists of pontics, or artificial teeth, that fill in the gap left by missing teeth. These pontics are supported by attaching to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. The experienced team at our dental clinic will work with you to determine the best material for your bridge, taking into account factors such as cost, appearance, and durability.

Why Get A Dental Bridge?

The consequences of tooth loss extend beyond the immediate gap in your smile. Without a replacement, surrounding teeth may shift, affecting your ability to chew and speak properly. Additionally, the bone in the area of the missing tooth may deteriorate over time, leading to further oral health issues. Furthermore, missing teeth can alter the shape of your face and diminish your confidence in your smile. A bridge not only fills the gap left by missing teeth but also helps preserve the integrity of your natural teeth, restoring your smile and boosting your confidence.

Types of Dental Bridges

Depending on your specific situation, the dentist may have a different recommendation for the best bridge for you. The options include:

• Traditional Dental Bridges: This type of bridge involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (artificial tooth) in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type and are made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramic.
• Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The pontic is anchored to one or more adjacent teeth on one side.
• Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, Maryland bridges consist of a pontic held in place by a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded onto the backs of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge is typically used to replace front teeth.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

The first step is a consultation with our dental team, during which we will assess your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if dental bridges are the right option for you. We will conduct a thorough dental examination, which may include X-rays and impressions of your teeth, to ensure that your mouth is healthy and suitable for the bridge placement. Based on the examination findings, we will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, including the type of bridge to be used and the number of appointments required.

The Procedure Itself

The process of placing your dental bridge will follow these four steps:

1. Tooth Preparation: During the first appointment, the abutment teeth (the teeth adjacent to the gap) will be prepared by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate the dental crowns that will support the bridge.
2. Impression: Impressions of your teeth will be taken to create a custom-made bridge that fits seamlessly into your smile.
3. Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary bridge will be placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
4. Bridge Placement: Once the permanent bridge is ready, it will be carefully fitted and cemented into place, restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile.

The Recovery Process

It is normal to experience some sensitivity and discomfort immediately after the bridge placement at the dental clinic, which should subside within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the new restoration. Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash, are essential to prevent infection and maintain the health of your dental bridge. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure that the bridge is functioning properly and to address any concerns or issues that may arise during the recovery period.

Your Bridge’s Longevity

In order to keep your dental bridge in great condition for as long as possible, make sure to stick to these tips:

• Avoid Hard Foods: To prevent damage to your dental bridge, avoid biting down on hard or sticky foods that could dislodge or damage the restoration.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to monitor the health of your bridge and surrounding teeth and address any potential issues early on.
• Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your bridge from damage.

Who Does Dr. Patel Recommend Bridges For?

Dr. Patel understands that each patient has unique dental needs and concerns. Dental bridges are often recommended for patients with bone loss or significant damage that precludes the use of dental implants. By recommending a bridge, Dr. Patel aims to provide patients with a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution that allows for effortless chewing of their favorite foods. 

If you live in San Bernardino and are experiencing tooth loss or considering options for tooth replacement, we invite you to contact us at (888) 599-7005 or email us to schedule an appointment. During your visit, Dr. Patel will evaluate your oral health and discuss whether a dental bridge is the right choice for you.