Dental bridges serve the same function as most any type of other bridge; they span a gap between two places.

Gaps left by missing teeth will cause the remaining teeth to shift into the empty spaces, resulting in a non-aligned or improper bite. This irregular bite can also lead to gum disease or joint disorders commonly called TMJ (Temporo Mandibular Joint).

Dental bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth. They span the space where the teeth are missing. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth or dental implants surrounding the empty space.

These natural or implanted teeth, called abutments, serve as anchors for the bridge. A replacement tooth, called a pontic, is attached to the crowns that cover the abutments. As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges.

Your dentist here at Smilebuilderz in Lancaster, can help you decide which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. Porcelain or ceramic bridges can be matched to the color of your natural teeth.

How Are Dental Bridges Made?

Before a bridge can be made, the tooth (or teeth) must be reduced in size so that the dental bridge will fit over it properly. After reducing the tooth/teeth, your Smilebuilderz dentist will take an impression to provide an exact mold for the bridge. If porcelain is to be used, your dentist will determine the correct shade for the bridge to match the color of your existing teeth.

Using this impression, a dental lab, right here in our Smilebuilderz office/lab, then makes your bridge, in the material you have chosen. A temporary bridge will be put in place to cover the prepared tooth while the permanent bridge is being made. When the permanent dental bridge is ready, the temporary crown or bridge is removed, and the new crown or bridge is cemented over your prepared tooth or teeth.

Do Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges can last a lifetime but occasionally they may need attention (becoming loose). This is usually a quick fix and requires very little time to correct. Sometimes, an otherwise strong dental bridge can lose its support if the teeth or bone holding it in place (anchor or abutment teeth) are damaged by dental disease. Good oral hygiene and regular checkups at Smilebuilderz can help insure your dental bridges will last a lifetime!