Center One Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Bridgework Helps Close the Gaps
A dental bridge (also called a fixed removable denture) is a prosthetic replacement for a single (or multiple) missing teeth. Bridges are supported by natural teeth, dental implants, or by a combination of the two.
Traditionally manufactured using porcelain or ceramic, a dental bridge is made by creating crowns for both ends of the missing teeth and placing false teeth in between the crowns, thereby creating a look of your natural teeth. If the teeth on which the crowns are being placed are not healthy enough, root canal therapy may be needed before installing the bridge. Parts of the surrounding natural teeth may need to be removed in order to make space for the crowns as well.
The installation of a bridge will usually require two visits to our clinic in Canonsburg, PA. During the first visit, the teeth are prepared and covered with temporary crowns. Impressions of the teeth are taken. In the second visit, a custom bridge is installed, which matches the look of your natural teeth.
If taken care of properly and supplemented with proper oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing, bridges can last up to 7 years. A major reason why bridges fail is the occurrence of cavities on the supporting teeth. By preventing cavities, you can help your bridge work last longer.
For high quality, affordable custom bridge work that looks and feels just like your natural teeth, contact Center One Dental in Canonsburg, PA.
Dental Bridges FAQs
Can you take a dental bridge out?
Dental bridges are designed to remain fixed to the teeth or dental implants supporting them for many years after being placed, so it should be impossible for you to remove your bridge without the help of a qualified dentist. While you may have heard of “removable bridges,” this is a misnomer some practitioners use to refer to partial dentures.
Never attempt to remove your dental bridge on your own, and if you find out that you can, please contact our office in Cannonsburg as soon as possible. Our skilled staff will be happy to repair or replace your appliance as needed.
How long should a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge that receives proper care can usually last between five and fifteen years, but this can vary depending on several factors. For example, metal bridges may last slightly longer than metal-free bridges, but the difference is often negligible, and devices used to restore teeth farther back in the mouth may not last as long since they endure more chewing pressure. To keep your bridge in excellent shape, be sure to stick to great habits like:
- Practicing excellent oral hygiene
- Limiting your intake of sugars, acids, and alcohol
- Visiting our office in Canonsburg for regular dental checkups
- Abstaining from bad oral habits like smoking, grinding, opening packages with your teeth, and chewing on ice or inedible items like wood, plastic, metal, glass, and fingernails
If a dental bridge is supported by dental implants, it may last significantly longer than a traditional restoration since it is anchored securely to the jawbone with a small titanium piece.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
A traditional bridge supported by dental crowns can usually replace one or two teeth since any more than that can compromise its stability. An implant bridge, on the other hand, can often replace three or four since it is firmly anchored to the jawbone with a small titanium rod. Dr. Vekariya will be happy to help you understand which restoration is best for you during your consultation at our office in Canonsburg.
Can dental bridges be whitened?
Dental bridges are constructed from stain-resistant materials that do not respond to the bleaching agents in teeth whitening treatments. If you wish to receive teeth whitening and a dental bridge, it will probably be better to brighten your grin before getting your restoration. That way, the device can be matched to the shade of your new smile.
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