Dental Bridge Massapequa NY Dental bridges are artificial teeth that can fill in gaps caused by missing natural teeth, because of injury, extraction, or some other dental issue. Dental bridges are not as strong as natural teeth, but they are permanent placements and do very closely resemble natural teeth. There are four different types of bridges, though the procedure and recovery for each is very similar. Our office at Detailed Dental Care will provide more details to you during your consultation. Types of BridgesThere are four types of bridges available: traditional, Maryland, implant supported, and cantilever. Traditional bridges are the most commonly used. These are composed of two or more crowns connected to a tooth or multiple teeth. The crowns help to stabilize the bridge and hold it in place. Traditional bridges are made of any combination of ceramics, porcelain fused to metal, or just plain metal. Maryland bridges, also called resin-bonded bridges, are typically used for people missing their front teeth. These have either ceramic or porcelain fused to metal teeth. They are supported by wings on either side which are bonded to your adjacent natural teeth. Implant supported bridges are similar to traditional bridges. The only difference is that, while traditional bridges are cemented onto the teeth, implant supported bridges are held in place by dental implants within the gums. Cantilever bridges are also held in place by natural teeth, but only one. These are a useful option for people with teeth on one side of a gap. Dental Bridge ProcedureThis procedure generally takes two appointments. The first appointment is designated to prepare the abutment (adjacent) tooth. This includes application of a local anesthetic and filing of the abutment tooth or teeth. Filing extends beyond the enamel, which is why anesthetic is used. Once this is done, Dr. Amoia will make a dental impression of your teeth to send to a dental lab for processing. Here, they will mold a custom-fitted dental bridge. In the meantime, our dentist places a temporary bridge over the prepared teeth. On the other hand, if your teeth are not able to support a dental bridge, this is the appointment where the dental implants are placed. At the second appointment, our dentist will remove the temporary bridge and provide a thorough cleaning. We may need to use a local anesthetic again if you are still experiencing any discomfort. Our dentist will place the bridge but will take x-rays before permanently cementing it to ensure that it fits properly. We use dental cement to bond the bridge to its support, whatever that support may be. Recovery and CareRecovery from dental bridges is generally quick and easy. Our dentist will instruct you on dental hygiene and dietary tips following your dental bridge procedure. For instance, you will still need to brush twice daily, floss once a day, and may also need to use mouthwash throughout the day. You could still get a cavity at the edge of your dental bridge, so this helps to prevent infection and reduce swelling. You will also need to avoid hard or sticky foods in the day or two following your procedure. Frequently Asked QuestionsAt Detailed Dental Care we offer several tooth replacement options, including dental bridges. The type of bridge that is best for your needs will depend on factors that are unique to your dental wellness. Our dentist will discuss your options during your consultation. Who is a candidate for a dental bridge?You are a candidate for a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth in a row. The supportive teeth will need to be healthy and strong enough to provide the needed support for the prosthetic. A dental bridge will restore functionality and help to preserve the shape of your face. The teeth in our mouths are designed to work together, as a cohesive system. The loss of one tooth can result in the surrounding teeth tilting or even drifting into the now vacated space. If a replacement is not set in place, it can take a toll on your bite. It can also place strain on your remaining teeth and potentially result in damage and discomfort. How is a dental bridge placed?The placement of a bridge generally takes more than one visit to the office. At your first appointment, our dentist will prepare the supporting teeth. This may involve using crowns to reinforce them. Impressions will be made of the supporting teeth and of the gap that is being bridged. This information will be relayed to the laboratory, where the bridge will be made. While the bridge is being made, our dentist may put a temporary bridge in place in order to offer protection for the prepared teeth. Once the permanent bridge is ready for placement, it will be fitted and adjusted as needed. It will then be cemented to the prepared supportive teeth. How long does a dental bridge last?The lifespan of a dental bridge can vary depending on factors like oral hygiene, bite forces, and material used, but they typically last between five to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help prolong the lifespan of a dental bridge. Is getting a dental bridge painful?Getting a dental bridge is usually not painful as the area is numbed with local anesthesia during the procedure. Patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off, but this is generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Overall, most people find the process of getting a dental bridge to be tolerable and relatively pain-free. How do I care for a dental bridge?A dental bridge does require some additional care. It can fail if the right care plan is not followed. The supporting teeth and the jawbone itself can be potentially damaged by decay or disease. Always brush around and under the bridge and be sure to use an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse away any remaining debris. Be sure to maintain a schedule of routine visits to our dentist, for a checkup and professional cleaning. Schedule a Dental Bridge Procedure in Massapequa, NY Today!Call us at (516) 875-6774 to start the process! |
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