What Should You Expect From a Dental Bridge Procedure?

Losing a tooth affects oral health, confidence, and function. Dental bridges offer a reliable, time-tested replacement solution. A dental bridge serves as both a functional and aesthetic solution, restoring your ability to enjoy your favorite foods while bringing back your complete smile. Knowing what to expect decreases anxiety and prepares you for the process.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the procedure of putting in a dental bridge, from initial consultation through recovery and long-term care. We provide clear, practical information to help you make informed dental decisions.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is an orthodontic restoration that is custom-made in order to fill the void caused by one or several teeth being lost. This fixed device is made out of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth), and a false tooth (pontic) holds it in position. These pontics are typically made from porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these materials.

Unlike removable dentures, bridges are permanently cemented to the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants in the gap. This creates a stable, durable solution that functions much like your natural teeth.

Various types of dental bridges are available, such as:

1. Traditional bridges: The process includes the production of crowns fixed on the teeth next to the missing tooth and a pontic in the middle.
2. Cantilever bridges: Used when adjacent teeth exist on only one side of the gap.
3. Maryland bridges: Less invasive. They use a bonded metal or porcelain frame to secure the pontic to adjacent teeth.
4. Implant-supported bridges: These use dental implants as anchors rather than crowns on natural teeth, offering the most stable and long-lasting solution.

When you visit our dentist in Las Vegas for a bridge consultation, they will help determine which type is most appropriate for your specific situation.

Who Might Need a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are ideal for patients who:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Promote good oral health by keeping your gums healthy and strong adjacent teeth
• Are unable or unwilling to use removable dentures
• It may not be suitable for dental implants due to health issues or financial limitations.
• Want to prevent remaining teeth from shifting position
• Need to restore proper chewing and speaking abilities
• Desire to maintain their facial structure and appearance

Age is generally not a limiting factor for receiving a dental bridge, making this restoration option available to most adults with missing teeth.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The dentist will go through a comprehensive examination on your first visit to our dental office near you in Las Vegas. This covers the following:

• Examining your teeth, gums, and jaw structure
• Taking X-rays or digital scans to assess the condition of your teeth
• Discussing treatment options and expectations

According to your oral health, our dentist will choose the most adequate type of dental bridge for you.

Preparation for the Procedure

Before placing a dental bridge, the supporting teeth (abutments) need preparation. This involves:

• Removing a small part of enamel from the adjacent teeth to accommodate the crowns.
• Taking impressions or digital scans for precise bridge fabrication.
• Placing a temporary bridge to protect the uncovered teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.

The temporary bridge helps maintain aesthetics and functionality while your custom bridge is being created in a dental lab.

Steps Involved in Placing a Dental Bridge

After the permanent bridge is prepared, the placement process involves:

1. Removing the Temporary Bridge: Our dentist in Las Vegas got the temporary bridge out and the teeth is cleaned of the defects.
2. Fitting the Permanent Bridge: The new bridge has been placed and fine-tuned to fit the ideal fit.
3. Bonding the Bridge: Once the fit is confirmed, the dentist uses dental cement or adhesive to secure the bridge permanently.
4. Final Adjustments: The experienced dentist will check your bite and make minor modifications for optimal comfort and function.

What to Expect During the Recovery Period?

After the procedure, mild discomfort or sensitivity is common and should go away within a few days. An expert dentist may recommend:

• Consuming soft foods during the initial few days
• Avoiding extremely hot or cold foods
• Practicing good oral hygiene to prevent complications

If you experience persistent pain or discomfort, visit our Las Vegas dentist for further evaluation.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge?

Taking proper care can prolong the life of your dental bridge. Follow these tips:

• Brush twice daily using a fluoride toothpaste
• Floss regularly, including under the bridge, using special floss or interdental brushes
• Schedule regular dental check-ups at our dental office near you in Las Vegas
• Avoid chewing ice or hard foods that could damage the bridge

With proper care, a dental bridge is going to be the right thing for you for 10-15 years or even longer.

Long-Term Benefits of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge offers several long-term advantages, including:

• Restoring a natural-looking smile
• Improving speech and chewing ability
• Preventing remaining teeth from shifting
• Enhancing overall oral health

The absence of teeth is usually compensated by a dental bridge that promotes correct bite alignment and thus prevents future dental complications.

Conclusion

Knowing what to expect during a dental bridge procedure helps you feel prepared and confident. If you are thinking of getting a dental bridge, contact our dentist near you in Las Vegas and schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options!