Dental Bridge Treatment

A bridge is planned around the teeth that will carry it, so most of the assessment is about them rather than about the gap itself:

1. Assessment: We check the teeth either side of the gap. A bridge is only as sound as the teeth carrying it.
2. Preparation: The abutment teeth are reduced to take crowns. This is irreversible, and it is the true cost of bridges.
3. Scan or Impression: The prepared teeth and the gap are both recorded and sent to the dental laboratory.
4. Temporary: A provisional bridge protects the prepared teeth and keeps the gap closed while the permanent one is being made.
5. Fitting: The finished bridge is tried, the bite is checked, the contacts are adjusted, and it is then finally cemented into place.

The sequence runs across more than one appointment, since the laboratory needs time to make the bridge, and you hear the timing at the start.

Compared with leaving a gap or choosing an implant, a well-made bridge offers some practical advantages worth stating plainly:

• Appearance: A bridge closes a visible gap without anything removable, which is the reason most people ask about one.
• Chewing: You get a functional chewing surface back across the span of the gap.
• Speech: Gaps, particularly toward the front of the mouth, affect certain sounds. Closing them usually resolves that quickly.
• Drifting: Teeth migrate into an empty space over time. A bridge holds the arch in its current position.

Post-procedure care is pivotal for the longevity of your dental bridge. Adhering to the maintenance guidelines provided, along with regular check-ups at Lansdowne Family Dental, will ensure your dental bridge remains in optimal condition.

Bridges are usually covered as a major restorative item, subject to a percentage, a waiting period, and an annual maximum. We check all three.

The choice between dental bridges and implants hinges on individual circumstances and preferences. Here’s a comparative insight:

At Lansdowne Family Dental, our seasoned professionals are here to discuss the nuances of both options, guiding you to a decision that aligns with your dental health goals and financial considerations.