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Bridges
What is a Bridge?
A bridge is a dental appliance that replaces one or more natural missing teeth, thereby "bridging" the space between two teeth. Fixed bridges are cemented into place next to "abutment" teeth- the surrounding teeth on either side of the space or "span." Unlike removable partial dentures, fixed bridges cannot be taken out of the mouth by the patient.
A fixed bridge is a device that typically consists of
three units- a pontic (a false tooth) fused between two
crowns (see diagram) that are cemented to abutment teeth.
Who should get a bridge?
If you are missing any teeth and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you may be a good candidate for a bridge. A bridge is the most natural choice to fill the space in your mouth left by missing teeth. This space can cause the surrounding teeth to drift out of position and can cause teeth and gums to become more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease that can cause further tooth loss. Fixed bridges not only correct an altered bite, improve your chewing ability and speech, but they also safeguard your appearance by preventing the collapse of your facial features that can cause premature wrinkles and age lines.
What types of bridges are there?
Besides traditional bridges, another popular design is the resin bonded or "Maryland" bridge, primarily used for the front teeth. This is usually the most economical choice when the abutment teeth are health and don't contain large fillings. The pontic is fused to metal bands that can be bonded to the abutment teeth with a resin cement and hidden from view, reducing the amount of preparation o the adjacent teeth.
A cantilever bridge may be used if there are teeth on only one side of the span. This involves anchoring the pontic to one side over one or more natural adjacent teeth. If there are no adjacent teeth to act as anchors, your dentist may recommend an implant- a metal post that is surgically imbedded into the bone and capped with a crown as an abutment.
In some cases where the span is large, your dentist may recommend a removable partial denture or even an implant-supported prosthesis.
What procedures are involved?
For a traditional fixed bridge, the first appointment consists of the dentist reducing the adjacent abutment teeth that will act as anchors. Impressions are made from which a metal framework including the pontic, is created. By the second appointment, the final bridge is fitted over the teeth.
The total treatment time is usually between two and four weeks, depending upon the type of bridge. However, because it is often difficult to match the natural shade of your teeth, the treatment time may be longer.
How do I care for a bridge?
With a bridge, it is more important than ever to brush, floss and see your dentist regularly. If you do not control the buildup of food debris and plaque- the sticky film of bacteria formed from acids in foods- your teeth and gums can become infected, requiring further treatment and resulting in possible loss of the bridge. Your dentist may also recommend using floss threaders that help remove bacteria from hard to reach spaces between the bridge and adjacent teeth and gums.
If you maintain optimal oral hygiene care, you can expect your fixed bridge to last as many as 8-10 years, or even longer.
Anaesthesia & Oral Sedation
As an adjunct to the stress free atmosphere of our office, we also offer sedation dentistry for any patient who suffers from dental anxiety or has a phobia.
Whether you are afraid of the needle, the sound of the drill incites terror or you just feel that dentistry is too painful, many consider this option to have their dental needs met. Sedation dentistry has been used safely in millions of dental procedures. Any procedure can be completed while you are sedated and most people choose to take care of everything in as little as two appointments. Many times it is as simple as just taking a pill prior to your appointment. If you have been hiding your smile, putting up with pain, or putting off going to the dentist because of dental phobia, it's time to make a positive change in your life. Take care of yourself first, make the call and enjoy the benefits of a healthy mouth and smile.
All Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Download Patient Forms
Patient Information Form. If this is your first visit with us, print this form at home and fill it out ahead of time, that way when you come in you won't have to fill out a bunch of forms!
Missed & Cancelled Appointments
If you are unable to keep an appointment, please notify us at least two business days in advance. This will allow us to schedule other patients awaiting treatment. If less than two business days notice is given, a $100 fee will be assessed to your account and is payable prior to or at your next appointment.
Payment Options
We expect payment in full at the time of treatment. For your convenience, we offer several payment options:
- Cash
- Debit Card
- Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, or American Express
- Medicard (a third party financing company with 0% financing options. The dental office--in this case us--absorbs any interest costs)
Insurance
We will work with your insurance company to determine your estimated co-payment amount for your treatment plan before treatment even begins so there will be no big surprises. We will be happy to process your insurance claim so you pay only an estimated co-payment at the time of treatment. Learn more about how insurance works.
Please bring your insurance information with you on your first visit.
