Dental Bridges

What is a dental bridge?

If you’re missing a tooth or a couple of teeth, a dental bridge is a prosthetic dental device that replaces them. The device consists of one or more false teeth that are anchored in place with dental crowns that are affixed to the teeth on either side of your gap. It can replace a single tooth or two adjacent teeth — essentially bridging the gap between your teeth.

Depending on your needs and your budget, Dr. Pandich might use dental crowns to secure your dental bridge, or she might recommend using dental implants as anchors. For example, if you’re missing more than two or three teeth, dental implants provide a more secure foundation for your bridge.

In most cases, dental bridges are made of ceramic or porcelain. You can also opt for zirconia.

What are the advantages of a dental bridge?

If you have lost multiple teeth, the impact is often significant. Missing teeth make it difficult to perform the normal functions of the mouth, including speech and chewing. Also, missing teeth affect a person’s overall appearance, which can reduce their confidence. Missing teeth also cause extra forces on your remaining teeth which can weaken those teeth.

A dental bridge is a cost-effective means of replacing missing teeth and gives you the ability to maintain the shape of their face and adequately distribute the force used to chew food. Additionally, having bridgework completed can prevent any of your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of place.

Dental bridges are one of the most affordable options for replacing lost teeth, which is why many people seek bridgework over more permanent solutions like dental implants.

What is the process of having a dental bridge installed?

The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of your overall dental health. If Dr. Pandich determines that a dental bridge is a viable solution, you come in to have the surrounding teeth prepared. Dr. Pandich reshapes the teeth and removes a thin portion of the enamel, so a crown, or cap, can be installed over the remaining tooth structure.

Dr. Pandich also takes an impression of the teeth on either side of your gap, which is sent to a dental lab where the bridge is crafted. When your dental bridge is ready, you return to Dr. Pandich’s office for installation.

During installation, Dr. Pandich places the bridge in position and anchors it to the remaining natural teeth on either side of the gap. In some cases, you might need to return to have the positioning checked and adjusted.

How should I take care of a dental bridge?

Taking care of a dental bridge is easy. You simply brush and floss it along with your remaining natural teeth. Remember, best practice for at-home dental hygiene is to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and high-quality toothpaste to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. You should also floss at least once a day.

Also, you need to continue to have routine dental checkups and professional cleanings. While your dental bridge is resistant to decay, you still need to take care of your remaining natural teeth. Also, routine checkups allow Dr. Pandich to keep an eye on your bridge and make sure that it fits correctly and that your bite is correct. Dr. Jessica Pandich provides dental services such as exams and cleanings, at her Westchester NY location that aid in the maintenance of dental bridges. 

Are there alternatives to dental bridges?

Dr. Pandich also offers dental implants and dentures to replace missing teeth. During your exam and consultation, she explains your options and provides her professional recommendation on which prosthetic tooth option is right for you.

At Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry of New York, many patients in Midtown Manhattan, near Bryant Park and Grand Central, turn to Dr. Jessica A. Pandich for full mouth reconstruction services. This is an area of practice that Dr. Pandich finds immensely rewarding, as the outcome can drastically improve the patient’s quality of life.

Quick Answers to Dental Bridge FAQ

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic dental device that replaces a missing tooth or teeth.

Who needs a dental bridge?

Anyone who has lost at least one adult tooth can benefit from a dental bridge.

How is a dental bridge installed?

Dental bridges are usually installed in two to three appointments. During the first appointment, Dr. Pandich prepares your teeth and takes molds for the custom creation of the bridge. At your second appointment, she fixes the bridge into your mouth.

How do I take care of a dental bridge?

Brush for two minutes twice a day and floss daily. It would be best if you also continued to have routine dental checkups and cleanings.

Why should I choose a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is one of the most affordable options to replace a missing tooth. They also look natural and can prevent your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of place.

How long does a dental bridge last?

If you take care of your dental bridge correctly, your bridge can last up to 15 years.