Dental Bridges at Dr. Elston Wong Dentistry
Tooth replacements that stay in the mouth
Replacement of missing teeth can be done through implants, bridges, and dentures. We now have methods to replace teeth that feel great, work great, look great, and are also long-lasting. We take careful evaluation to find which solution is right for you and your mouth.
Bridges are a permanent fixture, they do NOT come in and out of the mouth like dentures, so require proper hygiene to maintain. A dental bridge typically involves a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) supported at both ends by crowns on natural teeth. There are different designs of bridges, with differing materials. While most bridges have teeth at either end, sometimes cantilever bridges are a better choice.
In situations where implants are not feasible – whether it be due to inadequate space, bone, time or general health – a bridge can be the best treatment.
Fast facts
Prior to implants, bridges were the only non-removable replacements for teeth.
If a supporting tooth has had a root canal, bridges will increase the risk of root fracture.
Improper cleaning leading to decay is the most common problem with bridges.
Bridge materials have gotten a lot stronger and much more life-like in appearance!
The process
Step One
Assessment: is this a situation suitable for a bridge? We look at the space involved, the strength of the supporting teeth, the forecasted aesthetics, as well as the anticipated bite forces present.
Step Two
The supporting teeth are reduced in size to make room for the bridge (called the preparation appointment). A temporary bridge is often fabricated while the definitive one is being made.
Step Three
When the bridge is fabricated (typically by a dental laboratory), the temporary bridge is removed and the definitive bridge is cemented with the most suitable cement for that situation.
Let the results speak for themselves
Looking for real life transformations? Take a look at some before and after examples.
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Dental Bridges FAQs
How do you clean under a dental bridge?
Easy! One can either use floss threaders or a Waterpik-like device that can spray debris out from under the bridge. We can show you.
Why do I have to replace a tooth at all?
When a tooth is lost, we know many things will happen, usually painlessly: The bone will shrink. The adjacent teeth will tip into the space (and not in a nice way). The tooth opposing the space will tend to move into the space, encroaching onto where the missing tooth used to be. This will increase the risk of food getting stuck as other gaps open up, and the new alignment of teeth is typically harder to clean. Of course, missing a tooth will also increase the load on remaining teeth, which if already weak, will break more readily. Not all missing teeth need to be replaced, but it’s usually a good idea.
How long does a dental bridge take to complete?
A dental laboratory will take about two weeks to fabricate a bridge. More complex cases requiring bite alteration will need more steps though.
Does my insurance cover dental bridges?
You know, we have no idea. It all depends on the terms of your specific insurance policy, and the best way to find out is to send out an estimate to your benefits carrier. We can do this for you.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
The track record of bridges, when done properly and maintained properly, is a good one. You can expect these things to stand the test of time and seeing 20+ year-old bridges is not uncommon.
