Fill the Gaps in Your Smile with Dr. Grubb

Missing teeth can cause a lot of problems — they often make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile without embarrassment. If you’re missing adjacent teeth, replacing each of them individually can be costly and inconvenient.

That’s why we recommend a dental bridge for patients in this situation. Our bridges are customized to your teeth and highly durable for natural-looking, long-lasting results.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is accurately named as it literally bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth. The restoration is composed of one or more natural-looking porcelain teeth called pontics. These pontics rely on your adjacent teeth on either side for support.

Since they’re customized to your smile, you can rest assured that your dental bridge will look attractive and fit comfortably.

Bridges vs. Implants

In order to ensure your bridge fits perfectly, Dr. Grubb will have to shave some enamel from the two teeth that will support it. He’ll then cap the teeth with porcelain crowns to increase their strength for added support.

If your surrounding teeth are damaged or already protected with crowns, a dental bridge is an ideal option for you. If not, you may want to consider dental implants to avoid filing down your natural teeth.

For the best of both worlds, you can choose the convenient option of an implant-supported bridge. They look and function just like a traditional bridge, except they rely on implants for support instead of your adjacent teeth.

Implant-supported bridges require a longer treatment to allow the implants to integrate with your jaw, but the long-term health benefits are well worth it. Plus, you’ll save time and money in the long run by preventing further issues with your teeth.

The Dental Bridge Process

A dental bridge can typically be placed in just two appointments. During your first visit, we’ll prepare your anchor teeth so the crowns fit snugly. We’ll also take a precise impression of your smile and send it to a laboratory, where they’ll use the data to create your customized bridge.

Once it’s ready, you can return to our office so Dr. Grubb can place your bridge. At this point, all that’s left to do is enjoy your stunning new smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any complications associated with dental bridges?

Dental bridges usually don’t last a lifetime, so caring for them is essential to increase their longevity. Scheduling bi-annual cleanings and checkups with Dr. Grubb, in addition to following a regular oral hygiene routine, is required to prevent and address any issues that may arise.

It’s not uncommon for decay to form under the crown due to bacteria exposure, and changes in the bridge can occur due to wear and tear that can make it look or feel unnatural. If you experience any problems with your dental bridge, contact us immediately at (410) 939-5800 and we’ll be happy to restore your smile.

Choosing a highly respected dentist, such as Dr. Grubb, will help ensure your bridge and smile stay healthy for many years to come.

What’s the difference between dental implants and dental bridges?

The process of getting dental bridges is much faster than the implant process and doesn’t require surgery, so the recovery time is minimal. Bridges complete the gap between missing teeth and are held in place by anchoring teeth on either side of the gap called abutments. 

Dental bridges can be removable or fixed and last from five to fifteen years, or even longer with excellent oral care and biannual checkups with Dr. Grubb. 

Dental implants, on the other hand, require surgery and several appointments to complete the process. The implant consists of a titanium post that replaces your natural tooth root to support a customized porcelain crown, with a small abutment connecting the restoration together. 

The recovery process for implants is longer, about three to six months in total. However, the longer treatment pays off over time. With proper oral care and checkups, dental implants can last up to a lifetime.

What happens during the process of getting a dental bridge?

The dental bridge procedure typically takes two appointments which last about 20 to 30 minutes each. To start, Dr. Grubb will prep the teeth surrounding the gap which will anchor the bridge in place. These teeth, called abutments, will be lightly buffed so that crowns can be placed over them. 

Then, a detailed impression will be taken so that the crowns, pontic, and bridge can be customized in a lab. Dr. Grubb will make a temporary bridge for you to wear in the meantime. Once your restoration arrives, the temporary bridge will be removed and the new bridge will be adjusted for a perfect fit before it’s cemented into place.

How much does a dental bridge cost?

The cost of a dental bridge is based on your specific needs and the details of the procedure. Insurance will usually cover a portion of the expenses. It’s best to check with your provider to see how much is covered.

The cost depends on various factors such as the number of teeth needed to fill the gap and the details of the procedure. For a detailed breakdown of the cost, we recommend contacting our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Grubb. During the consultation, he’ll examine your oral health, determine the best treatment plan, and provide you with an estimate.

Here at Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry, we’re proud to offer flexible financing options, so there’s no need to sacrifice your health or feel like you’re in a pinch.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Dental bridges are prone to decay, which is why caring for them is essential to their longevity. In addition to scheduling bi-annual checkups and cleanings with Dr. Grubb, you’ll want to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine of brushing twice daily and flossing at least once to prevent plaque buildup and other complications.

How much do dental bridges cost?

Depending on your specific case and the type of bridge used, the cost can range anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000. If you’re concerned about price, we feature affordable payment plans for your convenience.

Are dental bridges covered by insurance?

This depends on your insurance provider, but most plans will cover a portion of your treatment to reduce the total cost.

Are dental bridges safe?

Dental bridges are a safe and effective replacement for missing teeth. With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Grubb can ensure that your treatment is safe and comfortable.

What’s the difference between a temporary and permanent dental bridge?

A temporary dental bridge is a restoration that we attach to your teeth after your first appointment. This means you won’t have to live with gaps in your smile while you wait for your permanent bridge from the laboratory.

How long does a dental bridge last?

With excellent oral hygiene and regular check-ups, bridges typically last ten to fifteen years.

Visit Dr. Grubb for a Dental Bridge

If you have adjacent missing teeth, a dental bridge or implant-supported bridge may be the best treatment for your smile. Call our practice at (410) 939-5800 or fill out our convenient appointment form to schedule a consultation.

Before you know it, you can enjoy all the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile.