Dental bridges are used to fill a gap caused by missing teeth. A dental bridge is made up of two or more crowns placed on each side of the gap, with false teeth in between the anchor teeth. Dental bridges can be supported with dental implants or with natural teeth in the mouth.
Our expert dental team at LuxDen Dental Center in Brooklyn, NY can closely examine your teeth and gums to determine if you are a viable candidate for dental bridges.
A bridge is a fixed device that can only be removed by a dentist. It consists of two crowns fitted over abutment teeth, the teeth, usually on either side of the gap, and these crowns are attached to the replacement or false teeth. Each replacement tooth is called a pontic, shaped like a natural tooth, resting directly on the gum underneath.
Dental bridges are used to restore the function of teeth, enhance a smile, fix a bite, prevent other teeth from moving (where there are missing teeth in between crowns), and/or to maintain the shape of one’s face, to name a few reasons.
A traditional bridge is the most common type and is made of porcelain that is fused to ceramic or even metal. A resin-bonded bridge uses wings on each side of the bridge that are bonded to the existing teeth directly.
Read more: Dental Bridge vs Implant
When you visit our Brooklyn dental office, the abutment teeth are prepared by our general dentist by recontouring them and removing a bit of enamel. This is so that a crown can be successfully placed. Impressions are made and then used by a dental lab to create this bridge for you. While this permanent bridge is being made, a temporary one is worn to protect the teeth.
During your second visit to LuxDen Dental Center, the temporary bridge is removed and the new and permanent bridge is placed. Several visits may be required to check the bite and fit.
Dental bridges can last up to 15 years with proper checkups and cleanings, and a regular oral hygiene routine.
The costs can vary tremendously depending on the number of teeth that must be replaced and the type of bridge and materials used to fabricate it. The most expensive type of bridge is all-ceramic, but it is extremely strong, and if you have good dental insurance, it may cover most or all of the costs. If you have dental implants, you might find some of the costs are also covered by dental insurance, so it’s worth checking with your insurer before you see an implant dentist. Even if the costs aren’t covered by insurance, dental implant treatment can be an excellent way to go. Success rates are very high, typically 95% or more, and treatment is long-lasting, so it’s well worth the extra effort and initial expense required.
If you’re looking for successful ways to fix missing teeth in your mouth, it’s time to learn about dental bridges. To learn how bridges can help your teeth and to schedule an appointment, call our Brooklyn dental specialists at (347) 690-7614 today.