Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are used to create a bridge to cross the area where your tooth or teeth are missing. Bridges are made from gold, metal, alloys or porcelain to ensure they are strong and durable.
The process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. The existing teeth are re-contoured to provide a base for the bridge. After the abutments have been created, a mold of the area is taken and sent to a dental lab. The lab is able to use the mold to create a bridge that will fit properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge consists of two crowns on either end to place on the abutments and a pontic – the new tooth that will replace your missing tooth.
You will be fitted with a temporary bridge while you wait for the lab to craft the permanent bridge. This will protect the abutments and the exposed gum areas and look more appealing than having a missing tooth. When the permanent bridge is ready, you will have a follow-up visit to set the bridge. It will be placed on the abutments and the dentist will then use an adhesive to make sure that the bridge is set.
It may take a few days to get accustomed to the bridge, but it should soon feel like you have your own teeth back. You should eat soft foods for the first few days after having your bridge placed. After the initial phase, you will be able to eat whatever you want with no issues.
If you are missing a tooth you should strongly consider having it replaced. Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it could also cause structural changes to your mouth and jaw, as well as making it difficult to eat or speak properly. Set up an appointment today.