Dental bridges
are a great way to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are used
to literally create a bridge to cross the area where your tooth is
missing. Bridges are made from gold, metal, alloys, or porcelain to
ensure that they are strong and durable.
The
process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your
existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. The existing teeth are
recontoured to provide a base for the bridge. After the abutments have
been created, a mold is taken of the area which is sent to a dental lab.
The lab is able to use the mold to create a bridge that will fit
properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge
consists of two crowns on either end to place on the abutments and a pontic, which is the new tooth that replaces your missing tooth.
We
will fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft
your permanent bridge. This will protect the abutments and the exposed
gum areas and look more appealing than having a missing tooth. When the
permanent bridge has been created, you will have a follow up visit to
set the bridge. It will be placed on the abutments and the dentist will
then use an adhesive to make sure that the bridge is set.
The
bridge may take a little while to get used to, but after a few days it
should feel like you have your own teeth back again. You should eat soft
foods for the first few days after having your bridge placed. After the
initial phase, you will be able to eat whatever you want with no
issues.
If
you are missing a tooth you should strongly consider having it
replaced. Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it
could also cause structural changes to your mouth and jaw, as well as
making it difficult to eat or speak properly. Set up an appointment
today to restore your smile.
