Dental bridges are one of the most traditional treatments used for replacing missing teeth. Each of our Rohnert Park dental bridges is crafted from durable, high-quality ceramics for optimal function and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a multi-tooth restoration that is supported on either end by a natural tooth. On each end of the bridge is a functional crown that rests over the supporting tooth. Between them, a ceramic crown is suspended in place. Although they make up a solid restoration, the bridge is designed to look as if it’s separate teeth. Most traditional bridges will only replace 1-2 teeth, and only if there are healthy teeth on either side to support it.
If your neighboring teeth could benefit from a dental crown—due to extensive wear or aging dental work—bridges are an excellent way to preserve those teeth while replacing the missing one(s). However, if your teeth are untouched and completely healthy, a single dental implant will usually provide a less-invasive alternative.
Why Would I Need A Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges help to fill in the space created by a missing tooth. After a tooth is extracted or falls out, that open space can cause adjacent teeth to begin shifting out of alignment. Even the opposing teeth may start to drift out of place. Bridges help to preserve natural tooth alignment while also maintaining normal biting and chewing functions.
The Treatment Process
Getting a dental bridge requires two separate appointments to complete. During your first visit, we’ll gently numb and prep the supporting teeth so that the end of the bridge can rest over them comfortably. Once they’re fully prepped, we’ll take an impression for our lab and place a temporary device while the permanent bridge is being designed. We’ll also send special directions as to coloring and shape so that the restoration will complement your surrounding teeth. About two weeks later we’ll have you return to our office to have the temporaries removed and the permanent bridge bonded into place.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
In addition to traditional bridges set on natural teeth, we can also pair bridges with dental implants. Implant-supported bridges are excellent for filling in the space of 3-4 missing teeth. They’re a great alternative to removable partial dentures or when a traditional bridge is not an option.
Onsite Prosthodontics Specialist
At Sonoma Smiles, we pride ourselves in excellence and patient satisfaction. Our team of providers offers some of the highest quality dental care in Rohnert Park. With an on-staff prosthodontist and experienced sedation and implant dentist, we’re able to expedite excellent care in a calm, safe environment.
Should I Get A Bridge?
Contact our Rohnert Park dentist or prosthodontics specialist to learn more about reconstructive dentistry at Sonoma Smiles.
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
