Dental Bridges. Dental problems are surprisingly common, whether it’s a persistent toothache, cavity, or even the loss of a permanent tooth. Whatever your oral health concern may be, we at Summerlin dental Solutions are ready to fix it!
One of the more common procedures that people visit their dentist for is a dental bridge. If you are unfamiliar with this procedure, that’s understandable. Most people have only heard of the more mundane elements of dentistry, like fillings or cleanings.
However, bridges are important in restoring oral health functions to patients with tooth loss. They’re widely used to tackle various problems experienced in restoring your smile.
The following article will address everything you need to know about dental bridge types, benefits, procedures, and costs.
Read on to find out more!
A dental bridge is a type of prosthetic designed to replace a missing tooth or set of teeth. Whereas proper dental implants include artificial roots placed within the gum, bridges function in a completely different way.
A bridge typically includes the use of one neighboring tooth on either side of the missing tooth or gap. These neighboring teeth are employed to help hold the bridge up. A false tooth is placed within the gap to “bridge” it and help cover it up, so it looks as if you were never missing the tooth.
The neighboring teeth are often reduced slightly until they can hold up a dental crown, which is a special, medical-grade cover that we place over filed or damaged teeth to restore them to their normal function and appearance. The missing tooth will also be bridged by a crown, but it may be significantly deeper or larger than the connected neighbor crowns in order to effectively fill the tooth gap
Why would I need a dental bridge?
There are many reasons why you will benefit from a dental bridge if you have experienced tooth loss:
If you are missing a tooth on the lower, the upper tooth may start to drop down into that space simply because of gravity.
Many dental problems can be overcome using bridges, which is why dentists have invented a variety of different bridge types to help address each concern individually:
Cantilever Bridge: Cantilever bridges are employed when one of the neighboring teeth needed to support an additional new crown is missing. A total of two artificial crowns are placed within the mouth instead of the three that are typically used in a traditional fixed bridge.
What Is the dental bridge procedure?
Placing a dental bridge is relatively straightforward and can be completed within one to two in-office sittings.
First, the dentist will clean the exposed gum and surrounding area. After this, they will reduce the appropriate surrounding teeth and sterilize the area once more. The teeth are reduced just enough to help support an artificial crown.
Next, an impression is created for the dental laboratory. We then fabricate a temporary bridge while they wait for their permanent bridge to be ready.
Once this is done, Summerlin Dental Solutions will bond the bridge using special dental cement. Sometimes, dentists may choose to anchor the bridge with a dental implant, but this is decided on a case-by-case basis.
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How much does a dental bridge cost?
Dental work is never inexpensive. A traditional or cantilever bridge can cost you anywhere between $1500 and $5000. Maryland bridges cost between $1500 and $2500. If you choose to get an implant-supported bridge, you can expect to pay between $4000 and $15,000.
Luckily, having insurance can significantly reduce the cost associated with these procedures by up to 50%, bringing the maximum cost for a traditional or cantilever bridge down to $2500 with $1250 for a Maryland bridge and $7500 for an implant-supported bridge.
The exact cost varies depending on how difficult the procedure is expected to be.
How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges typically last between 10 to 15 years, but this number can be increased or decreased depending on how well you care for your teeth. However, if you abuse and neglect the bridge, it may begin to disintegrate in just 5 to 7 years.
Dental bridges can last longer if you brush your teeth regularly. Flossing is essential, too! Try to avoid sugary foods or highly acidic drinks as these can deplete your bridge’s health.
What are some potential problems with dental bridges?
Dental bridges are effective; placing them is a painless process thanks to anesthesia, and you can have it done relatively quickly. However, this procedure is not without its problems. Below are some common potential issues associated with dental bridges:
You should keep these things in mind before committing to a dental bridge. There are many benefits of getting a bridge put in place. But many people consider alternatives, the primary one being implants.
Implants tend to last longer than bridges. They can typically offer you protection throughout your entire lifetime, whereas bridges won’t last you more than 10 to 15 years. Furthermore, implants are known to support jaw health. This is because they are entirely anchored within your gum instead of merely being placed over naked gum tissue. With implants, your jaw’s mechanics are not challenged and can continue to function the usual way
Brushing and flossing around the artificial crowns can pose a challenge, and dentists may prescribe additional tooth care methods to help keep your bridge clean and healthy.
However, if you brush regularly with toothpaste, keep yourself up to date with dental checkups, and floss in all the right places, your bridge will definitely remain free from problems.
There are many reasons why people prefer getting an implant over a bridge. However, bridges are still extremely common and have remained a dominant choice despite patients having the option for an implant.
The most essential convincing factor for this result is the cost. Bridges are significantly more affordable than getting an implant. Implants may require additional procedures, like grafting or a sinus lift, which only result in a higher final cost.
Bridges do not require such additional procedures. Things like jawbone density or gum strength are not important and can easily be overlooked. Also, you can easily get a bridge placed without any required surgery.
So, if you’re tight on budget or want to stay away from extensive surgical procedures, schedule a bridge appointment now!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many different bridge types out there. Summerlin Dental Solutions can help you decide which one is best for you. Before making an appointment, be sure to consider your available options.
Getting a dentist appointment can be a draining task, especially if you’re short on time and don’t know where to find a reliable dentist near you. However, once you get your appointment details in order, you’ll be glad you did.
Dental work should never be put off, especially if it includes something as crucial as getting a bridge fixed. With the right care, your teeth will be set free of any troublesome pain in no time.
Your Summerlin Dental Solutions dentist has the expertise you need to enjoy a celebrity smile once more.
It is easier than you think.
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