Dental bridges consist of two dental crowns and one or more “pontics” (false teeth). The two crowns attach to healthy teeth on either side of a gap in your smile, and suspend one or more false teeth over this gap, “bridging” it and restoring your smile.
Dental bridges are a great option for restoring one missing tooth, or a row of 2-3 missing teeth, in some cases. They are cost-effective and provide very long-lasting results. Since dental bridges attach directly to healthy teeth, they're a good way to restore your teeth even if your jaw bone is weak and you’re not a good candidate for dental implants.
To begin the process, Dr. Jagirdar will clean and numb the treatment area. Then, she will use a dental drill to gently remove some enamel from each tooth that’s getting a crown. This is done to ensure the bridge fits properly. Once your teeth have been trimmed, she will scan your mouth with our 3D scanner to build a 3D model of your teeth.
After trimming your teeth, Dr. Jagirdar will place a temporary bridge on your teeth. This restores your smile, and protects your newly-trimmed teeth. You’ll be sent home to recover. Then, Dr. Jagirdar will work with our partner dental lab to design a permanent porcelain bridge that will fit into your mouth perfectly.
It typically takes several weeks to build your final bridge. Once it arrives at Flatiron Dental, you’ll come back for your final appointment. Dr. Jagirdar will remove your temporary bridge, then check the fit of your permanent bridge. Finally, she will attach your porcelain bridge to your teeth with dental cement, and send you home to enjoy your newly-restored smile.
Yes. Dental bridges are bonded to your teeth permanently, and they are not removable. They also require the removal of natural enamel from two healthy teeth. This must be done to ensure the bridge attaches to your teeth properly. For these reasons, dental bridges are considered to be a permanent treatment. If your bridge ever wears out or fails, you will need to get a replacement.
Today, dental bridges are primarily made of tooth-like porcelain, but may also incorporate a metal framework or support structure. Porcelain looks and feels just like natural enamel, is stain-resistant, and is extremely durable, making it an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth.
Dental crowns are great for treating damaged teeth, but they can’t be used to treat a missing tooth. If you are missing one or more of your teeth in New York City, dental bridges from Flatiron Dental may be a great way to restore your smile, your bite, and your self-confidence.