Restore Your Smile in a Fraction of the Time
Dental bridges are great for people who want to replace their missing teeth quickly and get on with their lives. Rather than waiting for months for the dental implant process to complete, a dental bridge requires just a few short visits. This quick turn around time is the greatest advantage of a dental bridge when compared to dentures and dental implants.
What to Expect From the Process of Dental Bridges
When you come in to get dental bridges, we’ll begin by taking images and examining the site, then we’ll take a cast of your smile. The model for your bridge will be created in a lab based on this initial mold of your teeth. Before placing your new bridge, Dr. Kovacevic will remove a small amount of enamel from the surrounding teeth that hold the bridge up. Once all preparations are complete, the dental bridge will be secured into your smile and you’ll be good to go!
4 Types of Dental Bridges
Although the most common dental bridge is the traditional version, there are situations where another type may be optimal for our patients. Explore the four types of dental bridges and consider which of them is best for you.
1. Traditional Dental Bridge
The standard dental bridge is the one that uses one or more pontics to replace your teeth and shapes the surrounding teeth so they can provide support.
2. Cantilever Bridge
When a patient needs a dental bridge but only one tooth is available to support it, a cantilever bridge can be secured to one abutment.
3. Maryland Bridge
The main advantage of a Maryland Bridge is that the surrounding teeth don’t need to be altered in order to secure the bridge. Instead, the framework is attached to the back of the teeth.
4. Implant-Supported Bridge
Similar to how implants can be used to secure dentures more tightly to the teeth, an implant-supported bridge adds a lot of permanence and durability to the traditional version.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teeth can be in a bridge?
A bridge can replace four or more teeth, as long as there are enough natural teeth to support the bridge. If not, implants can be strategically placed for added reinforcement to the dental bridge. There are also various types of bridges that can address different areas of missing teeth.
If you’re interested in learning more about how dental bridges can benefit you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kovacevic by calling (724) 836-2433. During the consultation, he’ll review your oral health and discuss your treatment options so you can make an informed decision.
Are dental bridges permanent?
No. Typically a dental bridge will last between five to 15 years, or longer. Following a regular oral hygiene routine and scheduling regular checkups with Dr. Kovacevic can increase the longevity of your restoration. During your checkups, Dr. Kovacevic will examine your dental bridge and tighten the hardware if necessary.
To increase the lifespan of your dental bridge it’s best to:
- Avoid hard or chewy foods that place stress on the restoration
- Use a fluoride rinse and toothpaste
- Refrain from consuming starchy or sugary foods that cause decay
Remember to floss between your teeth and gums
Can a dental bridge fall out?
It’s extremely rare that a dental bridge will fall out. They’re rigid structures that are well-supported. While they may become loose over time, Dr. Kovacevic can easily tighten it during a checkup.
If your dental bridge feels loose, or in the event that it falls out, contact us immediately by calling (724) 836-2433. We’ll get you in to see Dr. Kovacevic as soon as possible. In the meantime, it’s important to avoid fixing the bridge yourself or trying to re-adhere it. Doing so could damage the restoration.
Is a bridge better than an implant?
Dental bridges and dental implants are both solutions to replace missing teeth. However, the procedures, cost, and durability are what make them so different. While a dental implant can last a lifetime, it requires two surgeries over the course of six months to be permanently affixed to your jaw bone.
The cost of a dental implant is determined on a case-by-case basis depending on your needs and the details of the surgery. Dental bridges are a more affordable option to replace missing teeth, however, the cost depends on the number of teeth being replaced. A complete restoration consists of two-30 minute appointments over the course of two weeks.
Unlike dental implant surgery, there is virtually no recovery time for bridges, so you can begin enjoying the benefits of a complete smile right away. They can also be used in combination with one another because you can get a dental implant to support your bridge.
If you’re interested in replacing gaps in your smile, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kovacevic by calling (724) 836-2433. During the consultation, he’ll examine your oral health and discuss your treatment options so you can make an informed decision.
