Answering Your 6 Most Common Questions About Dental Bridges

When exploring options to replace missing teeth, dental bridges are a great choice for many patients. In this post, The Smile Centre team answers six of the most frequently asked questions about dental bridges to help you learn how they may benefit you., 

1. What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are a prosthetic device that replaces one or more missing teeth. This device is permanently attached to existing teeth by bridging across the gap. The artificial tooth, called a pontic, can be attached to natural teeth or dental implants. 

2. Do Dental Bridges Look Like Natural Teeth?

Yes! Dental bridges are constructed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, often restoring the appearance of your complete smile. Those who wish to lighten their smile before a bridge can undergo teeth whitening to ensure that their smile is the desired shade before placing the prosthetic. 

3. What’s the Process for Getting Dental Bridges?

Getting dental bridges takes a few steps. After an initial consultation, your dentist usually prepares the teeth that will hold the bridge; they have to be shaped and covered with crowns. Then, impressions are taken, so a dental lab can make the bridge. Meanwhile, you are fitted with a temporary bridge. Once the final custom-made dental bridge is ready, your temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is put in place. Sometimes adjustments are made to ensure you get a solid, comfortable fit.

4. How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

The exact lifespan of dental bridges depends on the individual, but in general they last between five and 15 years. The lifespan varies depending on your oral hygiene and dental care, the health of the supporting teeth, and even the type of materials used to make the dental bridge.

5. What are the Limitations of Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges have a few limitations; there are some foods like hard candies, sticky caramel, and tough meats that you need to eat with caution, as these can be damaging. Patients with dental bridges must also be mindful of keeping the area beneath the bridge clean, to mitigate gum disease. And finally, dental bridges do wear out over time.

6. What are the Alternatives to Dental Bridges?

The most common alternatives to dental bridges are either dental implants (in which each missing tooth is surgically implanted via titanium post into the jawbone) or partial dentures (a bridge that is removable). Each option has its pros and cons that you can discuss with your dentist during a consultation.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Visit us at The Smile Centre in Sarasota, FL, to discover how we can help you achieve a healthier and more beautiful smile and find out if a dental bridge is right for you. Call 941-351-4468, or contact us here to schedule an appointment to get started.