(410) 939-5800
Replace Missing Teeth With Our Havre de Grace, MD Dentists
Are you eager to regain your confident smile? With dental bridges, our skilled dentists in Havre de Grace, MD can effectively replace your missing teeth and restore the function of your smile. Don’t delay any longer! Contact our dental office today by calling (410) 939-5800 to set up your consultation.
Our Havre de Grace, MD dentist explains the dental bridge procedure to ensure you are well-informed about what to expect.
How the Dental Bridge Procedure Works
Dental bridges serve as a reliable solution for individuals with missing teeth. They function by bridging the gap left by missing teeth, anchoring an artificial tooth (pontic) to the surrounding natural teeth (abutments). The process of getting a dental bridge involves several key steps, including consultation and evaluation, preparing the abutment teeth and placing a temporary bridge, fitting and placement, and a follow-up appointment.
Components of a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge comprises the following elements:
- Pontic: This refers to the artificial teeth or tooth that replaces the missing natural teeth. Pontics can be crafted from various materials such as porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these.
- Abutment Teeth: These are the natural teeth or dental implants located on either side of the gap, providing support for the bridge. If natural teeth are used, they are often reduced in size to accommodate the bridge.
- Retainers or Dental Crowns: These are affixed to the abutment teeth to hold the pontic in place. They can be made of similar materials as the pontics. Depending on the bridge design, these may be full crowns covering the entire abutment tooth or partial coverage like inlays or onlays.
- Connectors: These components link the pontic to the retainers or crowns. They can be rigid (as in conventional bridges) or non-rigid (as in some types of removable bridges).
- Framework: Some bridges include a metal or porcelain framework that adds extra strength and support.
The Dental Bridge Process
Consultation and Evaluation
The initial step in the dental bridge process is a consultation with our Havre de Grace, MD dentist. During this visit, Dr. Grubb will assess your oral health, including your teeth and gums, and discuss your options for replacing missing teeth. Digital X-rays and impressions of your existing teeth may be taken to create a model of your mouth, ensuring a perfect fit for your custom bridge.
At this appointment, they’ll also recommend the most suitable type of dental bridge, which could be a traditional dental bridge, implant-supported bridges, or another option.
Preparing Abutment Teeth and Placing a Temporary Bridge
Once it’s determined that a dental bridge is the right choice for you, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth that will support the bridge. Dr. Grubb will then take another impression of your teeth to create a mold of your mouth, which will be utilized to craft your permanent bridge.
While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary dental bridge will be placed to protect your abutment teeth and help you eat and speak normally while awaiting the creation of your permanent restoration.
Fitting and Placement
When your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to our Havre de Grace, MD dental office for the fitting and placement appointment. During this session, Dr. Grubb will remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent bridge to your abutment teeth. Necessary adjustments will be made to ensure a comfortable fit. The bridge will be secured in place with dental cement.
Follow-up Appointment
Following the placement of your bridge, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure proper healing. During this visit, Dr. Grubb will check the fit of your bridge and make any necessary adjustments. Instructions on caring for your new bridge will also be provided to ensure its longevity.
Post-Procedure Care
After your dental bridge procedure, it’s important to adhere to certain practices, such as:
- Oral Hygiene Habits: Maintaining the health and strength of the remaining teeth is vital for the longevity of the dental bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.
- Dietary Adjustments: Initially, it’s advisable to consume soft foods and avoid anything that could exert undue pressure on the new bridge.
- Regular Check-ups: Routine dental visits will ensure the bridge remains intact and the adjacent teeth stay healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any potential risks or complications associated with getting a dental bridge?
Will the dental bridge procedure be painful?
Are there any potential risks or complications associated with getting a dental bridge?
While dental bridges are generally safe and well-tolerated, some potential risks and complications may include sensitivity, discomfort, or gum irritation following the procedure. In rare instances, there may be an allergic reaction to the materials used in the bridge. Adhering to the dentist’s aftercare instructions is crucial to minimizing potential issues.
Will the dental bridge procedure be painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the dental bridge procedure. The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the treated teeth, ensuring patient comfort throughout the process. Post-procedure, there may be slight soreness or sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage any discomfort experienced after the procedure.
Credentials
Replace Your Missing Teeth With a Dental Bridge at Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry
Are you ready to achieve a complete smile? Contact Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry in Havre De Grace, MD, at (410) 939-5800 today to schedule a consultation. We’re delighted to welcome new and returning patients from the Havre De Grace area, including Perryville, Aberdeen, and Churchville, MD.