What is a Dental Bridge?

Missing one or more teeth? Dental bridges are one of the more common dental treatments used when someone is missing teeth. Having one or more missing teeth tends to make someone smile less because they do not feel confident in the way they look when they smile. But did you know that when you are missing teeth it can also negatively affect the overall functioning of your mouth? When teeth are missing it directly affects the surrounding teeth. They will begin to shift and move, which can lead to your having to deal with additional oral problems.

Ready to find out how dental bridges can not only improve your smile but also improve your overall oral health? Call us now for more information.

What exactly is a dental bridge?

A bridge is a dental prosthesis that is used to hold a false tooth that is to replace the tooth that is missing. The false tooth stays in place when the bridge is permanently attached to the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth using crowns, which is able to offer the best strength and support. The dentist will carefully prepare the two teeth the bridge will attach to for the best and most comfortable fit. The entire process only takes a couple of trips to the dentist office, which is one of the reasons why patients often choose this option when they are missing teeth.

During the first appointment the dentist will take an impression of the area so that they are able to custom make the bridge, then a temporary crown will be installed until the next appointment. Once the custom-made bridge is created, the patient will return so that the dentist can install the new dental prosthesis, solving the patients issue of missing teeth.

Post procedure care

It is important to follow the dentist's after care instructions for the best chance of a full and speedy recovery. While the following are some basic instructions for post procedure care, understand that the dentist could add to these instructions depending on their patients' needs.

• Do not eat any food for at least half an hour after the permanent bridge is installed.
• Do not eat anything hard, sticky or chewy for at least 24 hours after the bridge has been installed.
• Be aware of any swelling or redness and contact the dentist if any pain is experienced.

Need a dental bridge?

Nowadays, dental bridges are one of the most common dental procedures used when someone is missing one or more teeth. The entire process is one that can be done in only two or three trips to the dentist making it super convenient for those who live busy lives. If you happen to have any special requirements, please let us know so that we can do our best to accommodate you.

Call Schommer Dental at (563) 272-2331 today for more information or to make an appointment. We care about your dental health!