Traditional and Implant-supported Dental Bridges Can Replace Missing Teeth and Renew Your Smile

Placing Your Dental Bridge

To place a traditional bridge, Dr. Meek or Dr. Tasch will reshape the abutment teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. He will numb your teeth and gums in advance, so you should experience very little discomfort. However, if you are still feeling nervous, we can provide additional sedation to help you relax. By trimming off some of your dental tissue, your dentist can create a more secure base for your bridge. Then he will take impressions so that our lab can craft a restoration that is virtually identical to your teeth. We will provide a temporary bridge while you are waiting, and when it is finished, your dentist will attach the permanent restoration.

If you opt for an implant-supported bridge, we will refer you to an oral surgeon for implant placement. Often, we will have you visit a practitioner right next door, making your care very convenient. This specialist will place two or more implant posts in your jaw and in many cases, a temporary bridge can be placed day of surgery. As they integrate with your jawbone over time, they will replace your dental roots. Then Dr. Meek or Dr. Tasch will attach your permanent restoration when healing is completed. To ensure a strong bridge with a realistic appearance, our lab will usually create a zirconia framework. Then the synthetic teeth themselves will be crafted from porcelain or IPS e.max®.

Are You a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Your dentist will conduct a complete evaluation to determine your candidacy for a bridge and to determine which type is right for you. First, he will consider the number of teeth that you are missing. If you have lost more than three teeth, a partial denture will be more appropriate for you. Then your practitioner will evaluate the abutment teeth since they must be strong enough to support the restoration. If you have fillings or current decay in these teeth, a traditional bridge may not be the right choice for you.

To establish your candidacy for an implant-supported bridge, your dentist will consider your jawbone health. A strong, dense bone will give the implant posts plenty of support. Dr. Meek or Dr. Tasch will work closely with your oral surgeon to create an effective and one-of-a-kind treatment plan.

Contact Us to Learn More

It is important to replace missing teeth to maintain oral health and dental function. To find out which type of bridge is in your best interest, contact 38^th Street Dental today.