Dental Bridge: Types, Cost, Procedure, and Benefits

Dental Bridge: Types, Cost, Procedure, and Benefits

Mar 01, 2023

Taking care of your oral health is essential to oral health, and sometimes teeth need a little extra help. Dental bridges are one way to put a smile back on your face. Whether you’re missing one or more teeth due to decay, trauma, or genetics, getting dental bridges near you can help restore the function and appearance of your smile.

About Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials and are supported by natural teeth or implants. The cost of a dental bridge will depend on the type of materials used and whether you need one or more pontics (false teeth). Your dentist in Tampa can discuss the best option for you based on the health of your remaining teeth, your bite, and where the pontic will be placed in your mouth.

The procedure for placing a dental bridge usually takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth (teeth next to the gap) by removing some of the enamel to make room for crowns. Impressions will be made of your teeth and sent to a laboratory, where they will make your permanent dental bridge. In the meantime, you will be given a temporary bridge so that your appearance and bite are not affected while you wait for your permanent bridge to be ready.

At your second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and fix the permanent one.

Who Needs a dental bridge and Why?

The type of dental bridge you need depends on the number of missing teeth and where they are located in your mouth.

Dental bridges can be used to:

  • Replace one or more missing teeth
  • Restore chewing and speaking ability
  • Improve the appearance of your smile
  • Maintain the shape of your face
  • Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place

Types of Dental Bridge

The dental bridges types include:

  • A traditional fixed bridge consists of two crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap, with a false tooth (pontic) in between.
  • A cantilever bridge is ideal when one tooth is missing and is often placed on the front teeth. The pontic is attached to one of the adjacent teeth with a metal wing or clasp.
  • A resin-bonded bridge uses adhesive resin to attach the pontic to the adjacent teeth. It is not as strong as a traditional fixed bridge, but it is less invasive and can be less expensive.
  • Maryland bridge uses metal framework wings that are bonded on two teeth adjacent teeth.

What is the Procedure for Dental Bridges?

The first step in getting a dental bridge is to consult your dentist in Carrollwood. They will assess your mouth and determine if a bridge is the right option. If they think a bridge is right for you, they will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth. These will be used to create a model of your mouth so that the custom dental bridge can be made.

Once the bridge has been created, you will return for a second appointment. During this appointment, your dentist will place the bridge onto your teeth and check to ensure it fits properly. Once satisfied with the fit, they will cement the bridge into place.

You may experience discomfort after getting a dental bridge, but this is normal. Dr. Payal Arora can give you pain medication to help manage any discomfort. It is also vital to take care of your dental bridge by brushing and flossing regularly. With proper care, your dental bridge can last for many years.

What Does the Dental Bridge Cost?

The cost of a dental bridge will depend on the materials used, the number of missing teeth, and the complexity of the procedure, but the average cost can be $1,500.

What is the Dental Bridges Benefits?

There are many benefits to getting dental bridges. They can help improve your chewing ability and make speaking easier. Bridges can also restore the natural shape of your smile and support your lips and cheeks.

Dental bridges are also used to prevent teeth from shifting out of place. They can hold teeth in place after you have lost a tooth or had one extracted. This helps keep your other teeth from moving into the space and keeps your smile looking great.

They match the color of your natural teeth, so they will blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. Dental implants, natural teeth, or a combination can support bridges.

Getting dental bridges is generally a very safe procedure. The risks associated with treatment are low, and complications are rare. With proper care, your bridges can last for many years to come.

What are the Aftercare Tips for Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are an important part of maintaining your oral health. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:

  1. Brush and be sure to floss under the dental bridge as well.
  2. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash daily.
  3. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
  4. Avoid chewing hard foods or using your teeth as tools.
  5. Wear a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth at night.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Carrollwood Dental Studio for more information about dental bridges and what you can expect.

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