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A dental bridge is a type of restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of an artificial tooth that is held in place by dental crowns on each end of the restoration. The crowns fit over the existing teeth, known as abutments, which are carefully prepared in order to securely hold the bridge. This creates a sturdy replacement structure that is worn over your teeth. Once complete, patients cannot tell the difference between their natural teeth and the bridge.

Dental Bridge Placement Procedure

In order to prepare for bridge placement, the dentist will first need to remove some of the enamel of the abutment teeth so that the crowns can fit over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to an off-site lab, where the restoration will be crafted. While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary one will be placed in your mouth. This temporary bridge helps to protect your gums and exposed abutment teeth.

Once your final bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office to have it placed. Our dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the restoration fits comfortably and does not feel bulky. Finally, the dental bridge is placed, and our dentist will provide you with care instructions to follow at home.

Caring for a Dental Bridge

You should follow all instructions provided by the dentist after bridge placement to maintain a healthy smile. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner will help to prevent cavities from forming on the surrounding teeth. 

Additionally, limiting your consumption of sticky foods and hard candies can help prevent tooth decay around the bridge. It is also important to attend regular dental cleanings and exams for the best results with your bridge. Our dentist will work with you to help keep your smile healthy and clean for years to come! 

Advantages of a Dental Bridge

Bridges are stable and reliable as they are attached to the surrounding teeth for support. Another benefit of choosing a dental bridge is that it prevents further problems associated with missing teeth, like shifting teeth and difficulty speaking and eating. 

Bridges prevent these issues from happening by filling in the gap left by a missing tooth and keeping the remaining teeth in place. The artificial tooth placed between the remaining teeth will stabilize your teeth and help you chew and speak clearly again. 

Porcelain bridges are a popular choice because they closely resemble natural teeth in terms of how they look and feel. 

For more information, contact our Alexandria dental office at (703) 823-2848 or 5130 Duke St, Suite 8, Alexandria, VA 22304, or our Manassas dental office at (703) 479-7654 or 8608 Centreville Rd, Manassas, VA 20110.