Dental Bridge

This procedure consists of the preparation of at least two teeth for crowns where there is at least one missing tooth in between those teeth. This allows for the fabrication of a bridge connecting the existing teeth to a pontic (false tooth). The bridge is a fixed solution for tooth replacement, meaning that it is cemented onto the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient. Therefore, the missing tooth can be replaced without the need for dental implants or a removable prosthesis.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Once the permanent bridge has been cemented, it is not uncommon for the abutment teeth to be hot/cold sensitive for several weeks afterwards and occasionally a few months. Local anesthetics is often used during the cementation . It can be difficult to fine tune the bite at this time. Be sure to inform us if you feel that your bite is uneven as adjustments will be required. The cement will be its strongest within 24 hours therefore be careful not to chew anything very hard or sticky on the newly cemented restorations.

Permanent bridges should have tight contacts to prevent food impaction. If you have a fracture of the porcelain or an open or loose contact, please make an appointment for an evaluation. Open contacts can lead to periodontal (gum) disease and dental decay over a period of time if not corrected.

HYGIENE INSTRUCTIONS

It is important to brush and floss the margins of the abutment teeth to prevent periodontal (gum) disease and dental decay. Remember you can still get decay under a perfectly fitting bridge if you do not use meticulous daily home care including brushing and FLOSSING daily.

With regular professional dental cleanings and examinations the permanent bridge should give you many years of service. AGAIN decay may occur around the edges of the abutment teeth therefore it is very important to have these restorations checked and cleaned at a minimum of every 6 months.