Dental Bridges – Johnston, IA

All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing, and maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss doesn’t necessarily have to occur as you age, but if you do lose teeth, they must be replaced to maintain proper function. Fortunately, there are options for correcting tooth loss.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge — a device used to replace missing teeth — attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, which are called the abutment teeth. The bridged artificial teeth are attached by cementing crowns onto the abutment teeth.  Since fixed bridges are bonded into place, they can only be removed by a dental professional. Fixed bridges offer more stability than their removable counterparts.  Missing teeth can and should be replaced. Fixed bridges are a great way to restore your dental health and appearance.

Why do I need a dental bridge?

Oral functionality and appearance are important reasons for wearing a bridge. A bridge helps support your lips and cheeks, while filling in the gaps caused by missing teeth. The loss of a tooth may also cause neighboring teeth to shift, ultimately resulting in problems with your bite.  Teeth were designed to complement each other, so when a tooth is missing, unusual stresses are placed on the gums and neighboring teeth.  A dental bridge will help prevent this shifting from occurring, and will also help balance chewing forces.

How is a dental bridge attached?

The dental bridge procedure usually takes two appointments to complete. At the first appointment Dr. Emily or Dr. Derek will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin.  Since the bridge must be fabricated very precisely to ensure correct fit and bite, impressions or digital scans of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the bridge will be constructed.  In certain situations, bridges can be designed in office using our E4D software.

At the second appointment, the bridge will be tried in and verified for proper fit and esthetics.  The doctor will then bond or cement the bridge in place and go over proper home care instructions.

What materials are used for dental bridges?

Bridges can be constructed from gold, porcelain/ceramic, or a combination of these materials.

How do I take care of my bridge?

A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. This is of critical importance as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.  Your dentist, dental assistant, or hygienist will demonstrate how to properly brush and floss around and underneath your new bridge.