Dental Bridges
There are many reasons to replace a missing tooth, and a dental bridge is a probable solution in many cases.
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is anchored on each side by crowns placed on existing natural teeth and fused with the pontic (bridge). A dental bridge is typically constructed from gold, porcelain or alloy metals. In order for the procedure to be a viable restoration technique, the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth must be healthy enough for the crowns.
Missing teeth can be a problem for a number of reasons, starting with the obvious issue of physical appearance, or attractiveness. Missing teeth are unsightly and can cause the sufferer to struggle with low self-esteem, embarrassment and lack of confidence. But there are other serious considerations too. Missing teeth can be the cause of speech impediments and crooked or leaning teeth. The gap where the tooth once rested is also more susceptible to gum disease and other infections and can make nearby teeth more likely to experience decay.
Dental bridges are generally available in three forms – traditional fixed bridge, resin-bonded bridges and cantilever bridges. The traditional fixed bridge is the most common form used in dental procedures. It consists of a pontic – made of metal or porcelain – fused between crowns set in adjacent teeth that can be either natural or implant. These fixed bridges cannot be removed. Resin-bonded bridges are used when the adjacent natural teeth are healthy and strong enough to support the bridge. The bridge is made of a plastic substance and is fused to the neighboring teeth with hidden metal bands. A cantilever bridge is usually used in the frontal area of the mouth where there is less stress. This bridge can be used to anchor a false tooth using a tooth only on one side because a tooth is missing on the other side.
A dental bridge procedure can be performed by most dentists and involves application of a local anesthetic. Portions of both of the surrounding teeth are trimmed off so that the crown can fit properly. X-rays and an impression of the teeth will then be made using putty so that the bridge can be customized by certified technicians at a dental laboratory. During the first visit, a temporary bridge will be fitted over the exposed teeth and gums. Most dentists can very closely match the new bridge’s color to existing teeth using guides. Once the new bridge has been fabricated, it can be fitted at a second appointment and cemented into place. Initial adjustments to the dental bridge may require several subsequent visits.
The life of a dental bridge can extend more than a decade with proper care and maintenance. Regular brushing should be combined with the use of a Bridge Floss Threader and proper diet.
There are many advantages to dental bridges and a relatively small degree of risk. Surrounding teeth can be temporarily sensitive following the procedure and teeth and gums can be more susceptible to infection unless a proper dental hygiene regimen is observed. Many insurance plans with cover dental bridges, but confirmation should always be received through the company prior to the initial consultation so that the patient knows exactly what to expect. If insurance does not cover the procedure, out of pocket expenses should range between $1,000 and $3,000.