General Dentistry
Dental Bridges
Not only will your new crown or bridge improve the function of your mouth, by changing the shape, alignment, and color of your teeth, but it will also dramatically improve the appearance of your smile!
What is a dental bridge and why do I need one?
A dental bridge is a dental restoration that spans the gap left by missing teeth and is cemented to your natural teeth or implants surrounding the gap.
Just like with crowns, you can choose the different materials to build your bridge. There are different types of bridges and your family dentist at JVR Dental in Walnut Grove will select the best option for you based on the condition of your teeth, mouth, and gums.
What happens if I don’t get a dental bridge?
Having gaps between your teeth allows for your remaining teeth to rotate, move or shift into the opening, which will result in you having a bad bite. Gaps left due to missing teeth can also lead to gum disease.
What’s the bridge procedure like?
If the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth (or teeth) are healthy, we’ll file them in preparation for the bridge. If you don’t have healthy teeth to support a bridge, we’ll place dental implants instead. We’ll then make impressions of your teeth to make the artificial tooth (or teeth) and the two crowns in one piece (the bridge).
While the bridge is being constructed, you’ll wear a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth and gums. During your second visit, we’ll replace the temporary bridge with a custom-made bridge. The crowns will be either cemented to your healthy teeth or attached to your implants on each side of the missing tooth (or teeth).
See our Post Op Instructions on how to care for the bridge after the procedure.