Questions about Dental Bridges

Sacramento, Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, and Citrus Heights, California

What do dental bridges do?

Dental bridges replace missing teeth. Utilizing dental crowns affixed to adjacent teeth, a dental bridge holds a false tooth in the space left by teeth that have fallen out due to decay, trauma, or extraction.

What are my choices for dental bridges?

The types of dental bridges offered at Advanced Dental Concepts are fixed bridges, resin-bonded bridges, and cantilever bridges. A fixed bridge can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, and can be placed in any part of your mouth. A resin-bonded bridge is typically best for single missing teeth in the front of your mouth. Resin-bonded bridges can only be attached to adjacent teeth that do not contain large fillings. A cantilever bridge is also used primarily for front teeth, but can be used to replace teeth in instances where more than one tooth is missing.

Are dental bridges obvious?

Dental bridges are unnoticeable. To provide for a seamless, natural looking smile, your false tooth and the porcelain crowns that hold it into place will be colored, shaped, and sized to match all the teeth in your mouth. The band that holds the false tooth is placed behind your teeth, making dental bridges an unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing way to replacing missing teeth.

Do dental bridges take a long time to place?

Dental bridges are placed over two office visits. During your first visit, adjacent teeth will be prepared and a temporary bridge will be placed in your mouth. After your new tooth has been custom created to match your smile, you will return to our office to have the permanent bridge placed. The length of time these visits will take can vary from patient to patient. Dr. Miller will discuss how long your procedure will take during your initial consultation.

Are dental bridges permanent?

Dental bridges are anchored to your adjacent teeth. Unlike dentures, dental bridges will not get loose or fall out unless there is damage to one of the anchoring teeth. With a proper oral hygiene routine complete with regular dental exams, your dental bridge can last for a lifetime.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Caring for you dental bridge is as simple as caring for your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing twice daily, and visiting Dr. Miller for biannual exams and cleanings will help keep your dental bridge healthy for years to come. Porcelain will not decay, but the teeth supporting your bridge can still be affected by bacteria and plaque. A thorough oral hygiene routine is necessary to keep your natural teeth healthy and keep your dental bridge in place.

If you live in or around Sacramento, Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Stockton, or Modesto, California and have questions about dental bridges, please contact David B. Miller, D.D.S. at Advanced Dental Concepts to schedule a free consultation today.