Dental bridges are an excellent solution for closing a gap in a person’s smile caused by a missing tooth. A dental bridge is composed of two crowns that are attached to a pontic, a fake tooth. The crowns serve as anchors to your natural teeth to hold the bridge in a fixed place while the pontic will restore the function and esthetics of the missing tooth. A dental bridge is a natural looking fixed solution for your missing tooth, restoring the form, function, and appearance of your smile.

Bridges are used to:

• Close the gaps left by missing teeth
• Prevent teeth from drifting out of position
• Restore the aesthetics of your smile
• Improve function, chewing and speaking ability

What to expect

Dental bridges are custom made for every patient and are completed in two appointments. At the first appointment, we will use local anesthetic, using our automated Wand device to ensure your comfort during both the dental appointment and the delivery of the anesthetic. The Wand is a computer regulated local anesthesia system that allows for controlled flow rate and pressure of anesthesia during the injection, making it significantly more comfortable for the patient. Then, we will prepare the two teeth on either side of the gap, slightly reducing their size, creating space for the dental bridge that will be placed over them to hold attachments for the bridge.

After reducing the two teeth, we will create an impression of the area. This information will be sent to our dental laboratory where your two crowns and replacement tooth will be designed. A temporary bridge that can be worn for several weeks will be fitted in the patient’s mouth in order to protect your teeth and gums and replace your missing tooth while the permanent bridge is being fabricated. At your second appointment, the permanent dental bridge will be adjusted to a perfect fit and then cemented into place.

Caring for your dental bridges

Once your dental bridge has been cemented, we will review special dental hygiene instructions with you so that you can maintain your bridge for years to come! A special dental bridge flossing device will allow you to thread your floss between the pontic and underlying gum tissue. Used daily, the flossing device can prevent plaque and bacteria build up and maintain the health of your teeth and gums along with the functionality and durability of your restoration.