A dental bridge is a permanent restorative device that helps a patient restore their abilities to properly chew. These devices also give patients a chance at a complete smile. A bridge is custom fit for each patient, so the procedure has many variations in material, the number of teeth replaced by the bridge, and the kind of bridge used. Cicero Family Dental Care has many years of experience in this field and will be able to help you determine what style of bridge meets your needs.
What Are The Types Of Dental Bridges?
Bridges come in multiple materials and styles. Our team can work with a patient to pick the best one to help them restore their smile and tooth function. While gold can still be used, the most common material for a bridge is porcelain. This provides for the most natural look.
There are four different types of bridges: a traditional bridge, cantilever bridge, Maryland bridge, and an implant-supported bridge. What style you use will depend on the specifics of your situation. A traditional bridge is anchored to two abutment teeth. An implant-supported bridge is anchored with dental implants and suggested for someone with three or more missing teeth. Maryland bridges are primarily used to replace incisors and are anchored to neighboring teeth with a wing-like structure. Cantilever bridges are also used more for replacing front teeth and utilize the use of crowns.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Bridge?
Bridges are completed in two separate appointments. During your first appointment, your teeth are prepared for the bridge, and a temporary device is put in place. Then our team makes the bridge needed to address your individual issues. On your second appointment, our team removes the temporary bridge and replaces it with your fixed bridge. The length of time between appointments depends on how many teeth need to be constructed for your device.
How Long Will A Bridge Last?
If a patient takes excellent care of their bridge, it could last as long as 20 years. If a patient has poor oral health habits and is rough on their device, it could last as little as five years. The standard life of a bridge is around 10-15 years before they need to be replaced.
How Do I Clean My Bridge?
To get the maximum lifespan from your bridge, you need to take care of your appliance. You can brush it like you would natural teeth. You will need to floss around and under your bridge to prevent decay. To get under your bridge safely, you will need a water flosser or floss threaders. If you don’t floss under and around your bridge, plaque and bacteria can build up and create severe issues, such as decay in your abutment teeth. Issues with those teeth can cause the failure of the entire device.
Bridges are an excellent way for a patient to restore their smile and tooth function in a way that looks natural. Bridges have a long lifespan, but a patient must take care of their device to get the maximum use out of it. Cicero Family Dental Care can assess your condition and help you select the bridge that is right for you. Contact us today at (680) 688-6026 for your consultation.