Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth not only makes a smile fuller and more balanced, but it also improves oral health and prevents overcrowding and tooth decay. In addition to being harmful to your self-esteem, missing teeth can cause a variety of problems in your life, from difficulty speaking normally to difficulty eating and poor nutrition.
Fortunately, modern dentistry has several excellent methods of tooth replacement available to dental patients. One of the most simple and reliable methods available is also one of the oldest and most performed: the dental bridge.
If you are missing one or multiple teeth, you may benefit from a dental bridge. Dental bridges can be removable, fixed, or secured with dental implants for a more permanent restoration. Dr. Ribitch, a skilled and respected restorative dentist in Mount Pleasant, MI provides affordable dental bridges for restoring a healthy smile.
Removable and Fixed Dental Bridges
Removable dental bridges are typically a short-term solution while a fixed dental bridge is being prepared. They are used to ensure that teeth are in position. Fixed dental bridges utilize a prosthetic tooth connected to two dental crowns covering teeth on either side. However, this can put some stress on natural teeth.
Implant-Secured Dental Bridges
Dr. Raymond Ribitch works with an oral surgeon to place dental implants for implant-secured dental bridges. This solution is best for multiple consecutive missing teeth. After the dental implants are inserted, they need a healing period of 3 to 6 months to fuse with bone tissue. Then the dental bridge can be placed permanently.
Dental Bridges: What to Expect
Fixed dental bridges can be completely installed in just two visits. A local anesthetic will be administered and your abutment teeth will have their enamel prepared for crowns to be placed. Molds of the abutment teeth will be made to allow for the creation of three-dimensional computer models that will be used to create the crowns. During this first visit, a temporary bridge will be installed so that you will still be able to eat and speak as you’re accustomed to until your permanent bridge is constructed.
Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will need to return for a second visit to have it permanently placed. It will take some time for you to become accustomed to the feel of the new bridge against your tongue, lips, and cheeks, but will eventually come to accept it as part of your own teeth.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How do you care for a dental bridge?
A removable dental bridge should be removed and cleaned twice a day. Dental bridges can be maintained like regular natural teeth when secured with dental implants. Crowned teeth need the same routine care as your other teeth.
Be sure to brush twice daily and floss around and under a fixed dental bridge daily to control plaque build-up. If you have a bridge, scheduling routine cleanings with your dental office is even more important. A dental bridge that is properly cared for can last for a long time.
How long is the dental bridge procedure?
The dental bridge procedure usually takes an hour to an hour and a half over two office visits. The dental implant procedure will need to be performed first for implant-supported bridges. The implants require 3-6 months of healing to fuse with the jawbone. After that, we can take impressions and get you fitted for the bridge.
Is the dental bridge procedure painful?
No, you shouldn’t experience pain during the bridge procedure. We completely numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable.
How long does it take a dental bridge to settle?
Even with an implant-supported bridge that feels the most like your natural teeth, it’s still a foreign object in your mouth. It takes some time for you to get used to it. As you adjust, it may feel odd in your mouth for about two weeks. After that, it begins to feel natural in your mouth.
How long should I wait to eat after getting a dental bridge?
Wait about an hour after we place your permanent dental bridge to eat. You just want to give time for the cement to settle and ensure it’s stable. Avoid very hard or sticky foods for the first few days of eating as well, as they’re more likely to damage the restoration.
Can food get stuck under my dental bridge?
It can, which is why proper oral care is so important. We’ll show you techniques to brush and floss over and around your dental bridge so that all areas are clean. We also recommend looking into tools like Waterpiks, as they provide an easy way to deep clean hard-to-reach areas in your mouth.
Am I a good candidate for a dental bridge?
We perform a full evaluation to ensure a bridge is your right choice. For a traditional bridge, you have to have strong, healthy teeth on each side of the bridge span. If they’re weakened in any way or have cavities or decay, they can’t serve as anchor teeth for the bridge. For an implant-supported bridge, you ned enough healthy bone structure to fuse with the implant posts. You should also be in overall good oral health.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you have multiple missing teeth, restore them with dental bridges today. Mid Michigan Smiles is your destination for complete restorative dentistry services. To schedule an appointment, call Dr. Ribitch and his team at 989-772-1344. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure your comfort during treatment.