A dental bridge or denture is a restorative treatment which replaces missing teeth. A bridge is usually best if you have just one or two missing teeth. Whereas, if you have several teeth missing, a full or partial denture may be best. The procedure of fitting a bridge or denture is the same, however, so let’s take a look at what you can expect.
Step 1: Assessment
Before any dental work can take place, your dentist will give you a thorough assessment to make sure either bridges or dentures are the right option for you. Even if you have missing teeth, a dental bridge might not be the best option. Your dentist might advise dental implants or crowns instead.
To determine the right treatment, you’ll have an x-ray taken of your jaw. Your dentist will also discuss the procedure, your lifestyle, tooth care routine, and other factors to make sure you are both confident in the treatment choice.
Step 2: Abutment Preparation
For the bridge to be successful, you need healthy teeth on either side to anchor it. These are known as abutment teeth and will need to be shaped and prepared before the bridge can be fitted.
Local anaesthetic is used during this preparation procedure to make sure you’re comfortable throughout and don’t experience any pain.
The abutment teeth are filed down into the right shape for the bridge, and impressions are taken to send to the laboratory to make the bridge. A sample colour of your natural teeth will be taken at this point to make sure the bridge matches.
Step 3: Temporary Bridge Placement
During the same appointment, your dentist may fit a temporary bridge which protects the shaped teeth while your permanent bridge is constructed. This isn’t always needed, but can offer a better level of protection and can make the patient feel more confident.
Step 4: Permanent Bridge Fitted
The second appointment is when the dental bridge or denture is fitted permanently. Local anaesthetic is used to make sure you’re comfortable and pain-free during the fitting.
The teeth are usually cleaned beforehand to make sure there is no plaque build-up interfering with the placement. Once cleaned, dental cement is used to fix the bridge in place on the abutment teeth.
Your bite will be checked to make sure the bridge fits comfortably. You can expect the bridge to feel a little strange at first, but it shouldn’t interfere with your natural bite.
Step 5: Follow Up
It’s vital to look after your new bridge once fitted. Your dentist will show you how to clean it properly and give you recommendations for oral care. You’ll then likely have a follow-up appointment to check on the bridge, make sure it’s still comfortably in place, and clean.
With good maintenance and cleaning, a dental bridge can last more than ten years.
Consult a Dentist About a Dental Bridge Today
If you have missing teeth, a dental bridge might be a great option to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Call us today to book yourself an assessment appointment where one of our dentists will assess your teeth and let you know the best option.
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