What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a popular solution for people who have more than one adjacent missing tooth. For example, if you’ve lost two teeth next to each other, a dental bridge can complete the gap and restore your smile.
How Crowns are Used in Dental Bridges
Bridges are made by attaching the replacement teeth to dental crowns. The crowns are placed over the two teeth on both sides of the gap left by missing teeth for support. These teeth, called the abutment teeth, anchor your bridge so it’ll stay in place.
Dental Bridge or Dental Implant?
Dental bridges are a great tooth replacement option, but they can be made even better with dental implants. Implant-supported bridges use a dental implant as a stabilizer rather than putting crowns over your natural teeth.
That means we don’t have to touch your natural teeth and can give you the benefits of a dental implant, such as improved jawbone strength. Dental implants can greatly improve dental bridges and can be a more permanent option.
The Dental Bridge Process
Similar to the dental crown process, dental bridges take two appointments to place. Because two dental crowns are used for bridges, the procedure will be very similar. At your first appointment, the abutment teeth will be prepared for crowns and an impression will be taken.
Between your two appointments, a temporary bridge will protect your teeth and complete your smile. Once your permanent bridge is ready, Dr. Gabriel can securely place it and give you the beautiful smile you deserve.
Dental Bridge Repair
If your dental bridge has broken, call our office at (724) 935-2100 so we can help you. We recommend against trying to repair your bridge on your own because at-home repairs can result in additional harm to your bridge or injury to you.
Dental bridges last for a long time, but yours will eventually need to be replaced. That’s because dental crowns last for up to 15 years, then they need a refresh. Dr. Gabriel can take care of your bridge and let you know if you need a replacement.