If you have one or more missing teeth, you may benefit from a dental bridge. Similar to a crown or cap, bridges restore the appearance of your smile and the function of missing teeth. The restorative dentists at Williamsburg Dental offer dental bridge treatment to patients who experienced tooth loss. In addition, we provide dental bridges in Havertown, PA.
Bridges can provide a permanent restoration option that is cemented in place or secured with dental implants. With a secure dental bridge, patients can enjoy easy maintenance and a comfortable smile. Ask our dentists about treatment with traditional or implant-secured bridges.
Traditional vs. Implant-Secured Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can either be supported by the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the space. Traditional dental bridges use adjacent teeth that are capped off with dental crowns. Although these teeth keep the bridge prosthetic in place, it does not support the health of the teeth or gums.
Alternatively, dental implants replace missing teeth at the root. They integrate with the jaw bone to support crowns and bridges, including bridges. Because of this, implants are a permanent part of the smile.
Dental Bridge Treatment in Broomall, PA
Before treatment, we make sure that patients are in good oral and physical health. For patients who want dental implants, we may recommend bone grafting services. Dental implants need enough bone tissue for treatment. Once we determine that patients are good implant candidates, we can begin their treatment.
First, we take dental impressions, which are sent to a dental lab. At the lab, technicians create a custom-made dental bridge. During this time, we will provide patients with a temporary bridge. For implant patients, we work with a local oral surgeon.
The surgeon places the implant beneath the gums. Over 3 to 6 months, the implant fuses with the jaw bone, creating a stable foundation for the bridge. When the permanent bridges are complete, we secure them to the implants or adjacent teeth.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Discover more about dental bridges with answers to these frequently asked questions:
How long until my dental bridge feels normal?
It may take up to two weeks for your mouth to properly acclimate to a dental bridge. The fixed bridge will then feel just like your natural teeth and will be just as comfortable. If the bridge still causes you discomfort or seems loose, call our office and we will check the fit and placement of your bridge.
Does food stick under the dental bridge?
Infections might develop if food sticks underneath your dental bridge and you don’t properly clean it. If you don’t consistently remove food crumbs with a toothbrush, they are more likely to accumulate under the bridge. A dental bridge can irritate the gums if patients do not properly clean their bridge and food sticks underneath of it.
Can I drink coffee after getting a bridge?
After getting a bridge, we recommend that patients avoid drinking staining beverages such as coffee, coda, and wine. These beverages have a dark color and are likely to stain your bridge permanently.
How many teeth do you need to hold a bridge?
To hold a dental bridge, you need at least two healthy teeth, one on each side of the gap. These teeth serve as anchors for the bridge. The number of missing teeth the bridge is replacing can vary. For a traditional fixed bridge, having strong, healthy abutment teeth is crucial for support and stability. However, additional support may be necessary if more teeth are missing. You might need dental implants.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
Getting a dental bridge is not painful due to local anesthesia. However, some patients may experience minimal discomfort after the treatment. Additionally, the gums around the bridge may become sore. Discomfort and sensitivity are usually temporary. You can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain persists, let your dentist know.
Can you get a dental bridge in one day?
Thanks to advancements in dental technology, getting a dental bridge in one day is possible. Some dental offices offer same-day dental bridges using CAD/CAM technology, such as CEREC. This technology allows for the design and copy of the dental bridge on-site. Moreover, it eliminates the need for multiple appointments. However, not all dental practices offer this service. A patient’s dental health will determine whether a same-day bridge option is doable.
Restore Your Missing Teeth Today
Contact Williamsburg Dental for complete restorative dental care at (610) 347-8302. In addition, to serving Broomall, PA, we provide dental bridges to patients in Newtown Square, PA.
Feel free to schedule a dental consultation with our team on our website.