Bridges

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic that helps fill a space between one or more missing teeth. A bridge contains an artificial tooth and attaches to your two permanent teeth on either side of the gap. 

In addition to restoring the aesthetic appearance of your smile, a dental bridge helps prevent structural changes to your mouth and jaw. A dental bridge can also help you eat and chew more comfortably. 

Are there different types of dental bridges?

At Margaret Culotta-Norton, DDS, PC, the team offers four different types of dental bridges:

Traditional dental bridge

Traditional dental bridges are the most popular type of dental bridge. A traditional dental bridge contains a prosthetic tooth and is held in place by dental crowns cemented to your teeth on either side of the gap. If you’re only missing one tooth, you might benefit from a traditional dental bridge. 

Maryland dental bridge

The only difference between a Maryland dental bridge and a traditional dental bridge is that a Maryland bridge is held in place using a metal framework instead of dental crowns. Like traditional bridges, Maryland bridges are ideal for people who have permanent teeth on either side of a gap. 

Cantilever dental bridge

Cantilever bridges are held in place by a dental crown attached to only one abutment tooth. If you’re missing more than one tooth, your Margaret Culotta-Norton, DDS, PC provider may recommend a cantilever bridge.   

Implant-supported dental bridge

Implant-supported dental bridges are by far the sturdiest type of dental bridge, but they also require multiple procedures to install. Typically, one implant is placed for each missing tooth, and the implant holds the bridge in position. 

How many appointments does getting a dental bridge take?

Getting a dental bridge usually requires two separate appointments.

At your first appointment, your Margaret Culotta-Norton, DDS, PC provider performs an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and asks you about your goals for treatment. If necessary, they may also order a series of X-rays to get a closer look at your jawbone and tooth roots. 

Next, your provider prepares your abutment teeth. After administering a local anesthetic to numb your mouth, your dentist carefully contours your teeth to provide a base for the bridge. 

Finally, your provider takes a mold of your teeth and sends it to a dental lab. Preparing your permanent bridge takes about a week, so your provider applies a temporary bridge before sending you home.

At your second appointment, your dentist places your permanent bridge and cements it in place. The entire process takes between 45-60 minutes. 

Your bridge might feel awkward at first, but this is nothing to worry about. In a week or two, you’ll be able to eat whatever you want without any issues. 

If one or more missing teeth are negatively impacting your self-esteem, a dental bridge is worth considering. Make your appointment at Margaret Culotta-Norton, DDS, PC today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.