What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental fixed bridges are a good option to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are used to create a bridge across the area where your tooth is missing.
What Are Bridges Made From?
Bridges are made from metal, ceramic, porcelain, or combination of materials to ensure that they are strong, durable and esthetic.
What Does The Process Of Getting Bridges Entail?
The existing teeth around the missing teeth are contoured to provide a supportive base for the bridge. After the teeth are prepared, a mold is taken, which is then sent to a dental laboratory. The dental technician then uses the mold to create a bridge that will fit properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. A 3 unit bridge consists of two crowns on either end to fit the reshaped teeth and a pontic which is the new "dummy" tooth that replaces your missing tooth.
We will fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft your permanent bridge. This will protect the prepared teeth and the space where the tooth will be replaced. When the permanent bridge has been created and returned from the lab, you will have a follow up visit to try on the bridge. Minor adjustments may be needed to fit the bridge exactly, then it will be cemented or bonded onto the prepared teeth. You will then be given instructions to properly take care of the new bridge. After a few days of getting used to the bridge, it should feel like you have your own teeth back again.
Why Should I Strongly Consider Replacing A Missing Tooth?
If you are missing a tooth, even if you don't "miss" it, you should strongly consider having it replaced. Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it could also cause structural changes to your mouth and jaw as the other teeth shift. The jaw bone also gets thinner and smaller where the tooth is missing. You may also find it difficult to eat or speak properly.
Bridges In The Huntingtown, MD & Prince Frederick, MD Area
Are you interested in getting bridges with Lucinda S. Keller, DDS, PA?
Call our office in Huntingtown, MD at (410) 535-4022 to schedule an appointment!