A dental bridge is a single tooth fused with two porcelain crowns, and are also known as false teeth. The bridges are fixed in place to replace missing teeth. These fixtures are known as fixed bridges as they are permanently placed and can’t be removed like is the case with partial dentures. For this to be done, you will need to visit a professional cosmetic dentist.
The cantilever bridge is another type of dental bridge that you may come across when you visit a dentist for advice. This bridge is normally used in those areas of the dental formula that take less stress; a good example is your front teeth. The bridges help correct some bite issues and reduce gum diseases and can last for more than ten years.
Materials used to make bridges include:
- Cast metal
- Acrylic
- Porcelain
- Porcelain with metal supports
- Fiber dental bridges (the newest and most technologically advanced bridge)
There are different types of bridges, and they include:
- Permanent bridges
- Non-removable or fixed bridges
- Removable bridges
- Partial bridges
- Temporary bridges
On your first visit, your dentist will examine the state and health of your teeth and gums. The reason for this is to see if you are a viable candidate to get a dental bridge or not. Once your dentist has determined that you’re a suitable candidate, you’ll have local anesthesia administered to prepare the tooth or teeth that will be supporting the bridge. If they’re broken or decayed, your dentist will have to restore them so that they can provide the needed support to the bridge.
After this, your dentist will take impressions of the tooth/teeth that have been prepared. Here, the dentist will use a putty-like substance to create models of your teeth, and it is this model that will be used to fabricate your bridge. Professional lab technicians then take the model and build a bridge that fits perfectly. This is vital in ensuring that you do not experience any dental health issues as a result of loosely fitting bridges.
While your permanent bridge is being created, your dentist will design and fit a temporary bridge to protect your gums and teeth from permanent damage.
For the permanent dental bridge to be fitted, another visit to your dentist’s practice will be in order.
Cost is another major factor to think about. Bridge prices range anywhere from 500 dollars to about 900 dollars per tooth. In most cases, dental insurance will pay for half the cost. It is, therefore, advisable that you consult your dentist first before moving forward with the procedure. Anchoring crowns, which are often on either side of your bridge, are generally not covered.
The main advantage of a dental bridge is that it leaves you with a more natural looking smile. Most people will only require two dental visits to have their permanent bridges fixed. Fixed dental bridges can last for up to ten years or more, but only if you look after your oral hygiene.
However, poor oral hygiene could present some disadvantages. Acids from food on gums and teeth could lead to infection. You’ll also experience discomfort from the high temperatures after the procedure.
Aesthetically speaking, professionally executed bridges can improve the overall look and appearance of your mouth and teeth” something that will, in turn, improve the overall appearance of your smile and face.
