Crowns will cover surrounding teeth, requiring some enamel and dentin removal. For implant-secured bridges, implants are placed before the bridge.
The dentist will prepare the teeth (or place implants) to receive the bridge.
Impressions or digital scans are taken, crafting custom bridge and crowns. A temporary bridge may be provided until the permanent one is ready, safeguarding exposed teeth.
During a follow-up visit, crowns will be placed and the permanent bridge will be secured onto the crowns or implants and adjusted to fit comfortably.
How do I care for a dental bridge?
The best way to care for a dental bridge is to properly care for your remaining teeth. Your bridge is depending on the strength and durability of the teeth it’s secured to, so a solid oral health routine will go a long way:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time
- Floss at least once a day
- Eat a healthy diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for routine dental cleanings and exams
How long do dental bridges last?
When you practice good oral hygiene, your new bridge can easily last 10 years or more. At minimum, tooth bridges last between five and seven years.
Will having a tooth bridge change the way I eat and speak?
The reality is, having missing teeth actually makes it more difficult to speak and to eat certain foods. Replacing the teeth with a dental bridge actually improves speech and makes chewing easier.