What is a dental bridge?

Dental bridges are used to cover up gaps left by a missing tooth or teeth. The bridge is created with two crowns on each end that fit snugly over the teeth on either side of the opening. In between the crowns is a false tooth that takes the place of the tooth that is missing. These bridges become permanent fixtures in your mouth that cannot be removed. There are a number of different types of bridges that can be used in Orange County, depending on where in the mouth the missing tooth is located and how much the patient wants to spend.

• Traditional Bridge This is the most common type of dental bridge and involves the two crowns on both sides and a false tooth, also called a pontic, in between. This is the procedure used when the missing tooth or teeth are located between two good teeth that can be crowned. The bridge is generally crafted from ceramic or porcelain over a metal framework.
• Cantilever Bridge In some cases, there may only be a tooth on one side to anchor the bridge. This is known as a cantilever bridge. A cantilever bridge uses crowns on the existing teeth to anchor the bridge on one end.
• Maryland Bonded Bridge This type of bridge is a less costly option to the traditional bridge. The appliance is made up of plastic teeth over a metal framework. The Maryland bonded bridge is generally the easiest of the three to place into the mouth.

What are the benefits of a dental bridge?

Any patient who is missing teeth may benefit from a dental bridge. This treatment can do much more than restore a beautiful smile. Some patients may have trouble speaking or eating because of missing teeth. Replacing the teeth may also correct potential bite problems and hold remaining teeth in their proper position. It may help prevent chronic conditions like TMJ or reduce the risk of gum disease later in life.

How is the procedure done?

The first step in creating a bridge is to prepare the existing teeth to accept the necessary crowns. This involves filing down the teeth and then creating impressions so that the crowns will fit snugly over them. This process is generally done under a local anesthetic for the comfort of the patient.

The dentist will use these impressions to make the crowns and then attach the false teeth to them. Once the bridge is ready, the patient will return to the dentist's office to have the appliance bonded to the existing, prepared teeth.

How long will a bridge last and how is it cared for?

Most bridges will last five to seven years if they are properly maintained. This includes brushing and flossing the bridge daily and making an appointment with the dentist right away for any necessary repairs. Delay of repairs can result in infection, discomfort or bite problems. With quality care, some Orange County patients have kept their bridges for 10 years or more and experienced few problems.