Dental Bridges
If you have gaps in your smile from missing teeth, you should consider dental bridges. Restorative procedures at Junction Dental in Seattle, Washington are high-quality and designed to restore the function of your teeth while also giving you the confidence of a natural-looking smile. Discover more about dental bridges and how teeth replacement can benefit you.
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What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge consists of one or more false teeth held in place by dental crowns on the anchoring teeth on either side of the gap. The anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and the false teeth are called pontics. There are four types of dental bridges:
- Traditional bridge. False teeth are held in place by dental crowns on the abutment teeth.
- Cantilever bridge. False teeth are held in place by a dental crown on only one abutment tooth.
- Maryland bridge. False teeth are held in place by a framework of metal or porcelain that is bonded onto the backs of the abutment teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge. An implant is surgically placed into the space of the missing tooth, and then the implant becomes the support for the false tooth.
How do I know if I need a tooth bridge?
You may need a dental bridge if you have a gap in your mouth from one or more missing teeth, or if you have a severely decayed or broken tooth that the dentist needs to remove.
The Benefits of a Dental Bridge
Bridges do more than fill a gap. Benefits include:
- Restored smile
- Restored ability to chew properly
- Restored speech
- Maintains the overall shape of your face
- Prevents your remaining teeth from shifting into the empty space
What is the Process for Getting a Dental Bridge?
Obtaining a dental bridge requires a minimum of two appointments at Junction Dental. The first appointment involves preparation of the abutment teeth. They will be reshaped to make room for a crown to fit over them. Then, impressions are made of your teeth using our digital scanning method. You will get a temporary bridge to wear until the next appointment while the permanent bridge is being made.
At the next appointment, the new crowns and tooth bridge will be tried-in, adjusted if needed and permanently cemented..Most dental bridge procedures are relatively painless, other than some tenderness in the gums and tooth sensitivity.
How Long Will a Dental Bridge Last?
Dental bridges typically last 5 to 15 years, but they can last even longer with proper home care. The area where the false teeth rests on the gums is susceptible to plaque buildup, so it’s important to brush at least twice a day, regularly floss, and rinse often with mouthwash. You can still get cavities at the edge of a dental bridge, so good oral hygiene is necessary.
Tooth Bridge Cost
The total cost of getting a dental bridge will vary depending on the type of bridge you need and the cost of the crowns for the abutment teeth. Dental insurance plans may cover up to half of the total cost, but you should check with your insurance company to verify.
Dental Bridges in West Seattle
We have the professional skills and equipment to take care of your missing teeth. The Junction Dental team is committed to providing all our patients with the highest quality dental service and unbeatable customer care. Filling in a gap with a dental bridge will give you more confidence and restore the functionality of your smile.
Let us know when you would like to talk to us about dental bridges. We will schedule an appointment and discuss your options.