Dental Bridges

Losing even a few teeth can dramatically affect your ability to chew and speak properly. Missing teeth can also cause any remaining teeth to shift out of alignment. If you are missing one or more teeth and do not want to undergo invasive surgery to replace them, a dental bridge is an excellent way to restore function and preserve your smile.

Dental Bridge Options

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. Bridges can be permanently attached (fixed bridges) or removable.

Fixed bridges are applied by either placing dental crowns on the abutment teeth or by bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. A fixed bridge can only be removed by a dental professional.

Removable bridges are attached to the abutment teeth with metal clasps or by precision attachments. They can be removed for cleaning but may be less stable than a fixed bridge.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

Oral function and appearance are the most important reasons for wearing a bridge. A dental bridge helps support your lips and cheeks. The loss of a back tooth may cause your facial contours to develop a sunken appearance, giving you an aged appearance.

However, dental health is the most important reason for a bridge. When one or more teeth are missing, added stress is placed on the gums and other oral tissues, leading to several potentially harmful issues. The increased risk of gum disease is one of the worst side effects of missing teeth, and it can be minimized with a bridge. Missing teeth can also make it difficult to speak clearly due to lisping and other speech issues.

How is a dental bridge attached?

The attachment procedure usually takes two or three appointments to complete. At the first appointment, Dr. Mohandes will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin. She will take impressions of the teeth and send them to our dental lab, where a customized bridge will be fabricated for a precision fit.

Fixed bridges are typically cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth. Dental crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth, provide support for the bridge. If you choose a removable bridge, Dr. Mohandes will demonstrate how to attach, remove, and care for it properly.

What materials are used for dental bridges?

Bridges can be constructed from gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Porcelain is often bonded to either precious or non-precious metals for realistic-looking replacement teeth.

How do I care for my bridge?

A strict regimen of brushing and flossing your fixed bridge will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. This is of critical importance as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.

You should brush your removable bridge twice daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive denture paste. Be sure to use floss threaders or interproximal brushes to clean under the bridge where it meets the gumline.

How long do dental bridges last?

With good oral care, your dental bridge can last 7-10 years before needing replacement due to normal wear and tear. However, with the high-tech materials and techniques we use in our office, we have seen bridges last much longer, in some cases, for a lifetime, for patients with good oral hygiene and care.

Why should I consider bridgework?

Dental bridges are a tooth replacement option that is affordable and virtually undetectable to others. They are easy to create and do not require invasive surgery. Bridgework is an excellent alternative if you are excluded from getting dental implants and want a relatively quick solution.

How much does a dental bridge cost?

It depends on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, the materials used, and the time required to prepare the remaining teeth. Most bridgework runs between $2,000 and $5,000 (for individuals with no dental insurance). Dr. Mohandes will review your dental bridge costs with you during your initial consultation, ensuring there are no surprises.

How long does it take to get used to a dental bridge?

Most patients adjust to their new bridge within a week or less. During this adjustment period, you may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, although not everyone does. Any discomfort is easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers. You may also notice your bite feels a bit different, but you will adjust to this quickly.

How long does it take to get a dental bridge?

For most patients, two to three appointments are required. The teeth supporting the bridgework are prepared at the first appointment, and a digital impression of the mouth is taken. The digital impression is sent to our dental lab, where your bridge is fabricated. At the second appointment, the bridge is attached to the remaining teeth. If necessary, a third appointment is scheduled to fine-tune the fit.

What do I need to do after my bridgework is complete?

If you have a fixed bridge, it may take several hours for the dental cement used to attach the bridgework to harden. For the first 24 hours, avoid eating anything sticky or hard.

Am I a candidate for a dental bridge?

Dental bridges are most effective for patients who are missing only a few teeth and whose remaining teeth are healthy enough to support the bridgework. If your remaining teeth are damaged or multiple teeth are missing, you may have to consider other teeth replacement options.

How many teeth can I replace with dental bridges?

You can replace one to four missing teeth with a bridge. Supporting more than four can be challenging.

If you have questions about dental bridges that are not addressed here or would like to learn more, please contact our office at FM Dentistry & Orthodontics Phone Number 281-454-3152 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mohandes.