Dental bridges are an important part of the dental world. They can be used to replace missing teeth and improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.
The process of getting a bridge requires several steps to ensure the best possible outcome. This article will outline the timeline from start to finish for getting a dental bridge.
Starting with preparation and continuing through to follow-up, the process of getting a bridge is one that requires great attention to detail and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for the patient.
With the right care and treatment, a dental bridge can last for many years and provide a great aesthetic and functional outcome.
Getting Started
Once the decision is made to move forward with dental bridgework, the process can begin immediately. The type of bridge and the best method for replacing the missing teeth are decided by the patient’s dental health and the condition of the adjacent teeth.
A temporary bridge is sometimes made on the first dental appointment while the permanent bridge is being created. Depending on the type of bridge, the permanent bridge will be secured either with dental implants or with the support of the adjacent teeth with dental crowns placed on them.
Dental bridges can offer an effective way to replace missing teeth and restore the patient’s dental health.
Preparation
Before the permanent bridge is placed, the dentist must take detailed measurements and impressions of the patient’s teeth and gums to create a customised bridge. The abutment tooth, which serves as the foundation for the bridge, will need to be prepared to ensure a secure fit. This may involve root canals, reshaping, or even the addition of a crown to strengthen the natural tooth. Impressions of the abutment tooth and any adjacent teeth are made to ensure the bridge will fit properly.
Metal bridges may require additional preparation, such as grinding down the adjacent teeth to make space for the bridge. For implant-supported bridges, the dental implants must be placed first.
Once the preparation is complete, an artificial tooth is attached to the abutment teeth with dental cement. The missing teeth are then replaced with a permanent bridge.
The entire dental bridge treatment process can take several months to complete, depending on the complexity of the bridge.
Bridge Fabrication
Once the preparation process is complete, the bridge must be fabricated to transform the artificial tooth into a permanent bridge. The type of bridge chosen for the patient will determine the fabrication process. Cantilever bridges, porcelain bridges, and implant-supported dental bridges all require different fabrication processes.
Generally, the bridge process begins with the doctor taking detailed impressions of the patient’s teeth. The impressions are then sent to a lab to be fabricated. The bridge costs vary depending on the type of bridge chosen and the materials used.
After the bridge is fabricated, the patient will return for a dental bridge appointment to have the bridge bond to the teeth. Once the bridge is secured, the doctor will check the bridge fit and make any necessary adjustments.
The final step is the bridge installation. The doctor will then polish the bridge and make any necessary adjustments to the bite before the bridge is permanently installed.
Placement
With the bridge fabrication complete, the next step in the dental bridge timeline is placement. At this stage, the bridge is ready to be attached to the patient’s teeth.
The type of bridge used, such as ceramic, single-tooth, or custom bridges, will determine the placement method. For instance, single-tooth bridges require the attachment of crowns to the abutment teeth, while other types of bridges may require the placement of a pontic between crowns.
The crown process is also part of the dental bridge placement step and involves the custom sculpting of a crown to fit the abutment tooth. The crown is then cemented onto the abutment tooth to secure the bridge in place.
With the bridge and crowns properly placed, the patient can now enjoy the full benefits of dental bridges.
Adjustment
Following placement, the next step in the dental bridge procedure timeline is adjustment. During this stage, the dental care provider will use specialised tools to fit the permanent tooth and prosthetic tooth, which are connected by a tooth bridge, perfectly to the patient’s mouth. This may involve the shaping of the plastic or false teeth to ensure proper alignment and bite.
The patient may be required to make more than one dental visit in order to complete the dental procedures associated with the adjustment of the bridge. In addition, the patient may be encouraged to avoid chewing hard and complex foods to ensure the bridge is not damaged during the adjustment process.
These adjustments are essential to ensuring the patient has a properly functioning bridge that meets all of their dental care needs.
Aftercare
After the bridge has been properly adjusted, it is important for the patient to follow their dental care provider’s aftercare instructions to ensure their bridge remains in proper condition.
To get the most out of a permanent solution, it is essential to maintain healthy and natural teeth and gums with excellent oral hygiene habits. Experienced dentists suggest regular visits to keep a natural-looking smile and prevent plaque buildup.
Restorative dentistry requires daily home care habits to ensure the bridge is stable and secure. Brushing and flossing twice a day, a proper diet and regular dental visits are all important steps in taking good care of the bridge.
With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can provide a healthy and natural-looking smile for years to come.
Follow-up
Once the bridge has been adjusted and the patient is following the aftercare instructions, regular follow-up visits are essential to ensure the bridge remains in proper condition. Regular check-ups will help ensure the dental bridges stay in place and remain in good condition. Proper care of the bridge helps to ensure the replacement teeth look and function properly for a longer period of time.
During the follow-up visits, the dentist will check the bridge for any signs of wear, damage, or decay. They will also check the porcelain wings attached to the adjacent teeth for any signs of damage.
Key Takeaways
Dental bridges are a permanent solution to replace one or more missing natural teeth. The process from start to finish typically involves:
- Initial consultation
- Preparation and fabrication of the bridge
- Placement
- Adjustment
- Aftercare
- Regular follow-up visits
The bridge must be carefully monitored to ensure proper fit and function, as well as aesthetic appearance. With proper care, a dental bridge can last for many years and provide improved comfort and function.
If you have missing teeth and are looking for a permanent solution, Berwick Smiles in Berwick, VIC, is here to help. Our experienced team of dentists in Berwick will help you find the best bridge option to restore your smile and ensure your comfort and function. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile!
