What to Expect During a Dental Bridge Procedure

Dental bridges are an option in restorative dentistry that replace missing teeth and restore your smile. This procedure improves the look of your smile and restores function so you can chew and speak comfortably. If you are considering this treatment, knowing the steps involved can help you prepare and adjust your expectations accordingly.

An overview of the dental bridge procedure

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth by being anchored on existing teeth or implants. They "bridge" the gap, preventing other teeth from shifting, which can cause bite problems and additional tooth loss. In traditional bridges, the anchoring teeth (abutments) are covered with crowns that hold the prosthetic tooth (pontic) in place. The steps include:

Consultation and treatment planning

A thorough examination and consultation are necessary before the procedure to determine the patient's oral health and suitability for a dental bridge. This includes assessing the health of the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the gap) and discussing bridge types and materials. The dental bridge is only as strong as the supporting teeth.

Preparation

The dentist prepares the abutment teeth for the bridge on the first visit. The process involves reshaping these teeth by removing some enamel to accommodate the crowns that will anchor the bridge. They take impressions of the teeth to use as a model for the bridge, crowns, and pontic. The entire structure is custom-made for patients in a dental lab. The dental professional might place a temporary bridge over the prepared teeth and the gap to protect them and preserve the smile while the permanent bridge is in production.

Creating the permanent bridge may take a few weeks while the patient wears the temporary bridge. The materials of the bridge might be porcelain fused to metal alloys, ceramics, or metal. It depends on the location of the bridge and its functional and aesthetic requirements. With implant bridges, the initial preparation only requires placing a dental implant. Modifying the adjacent teeth is not necessary.

Bridge fitting

When the permanent bridge is ready, the second visit involves removing the temporary bridge and fitting the new, permanent one. The dentist will adjust the fit of the metal framework and bite to ensure a perfect fit.

Once a fit is satisfactory, they will cement the bridge into place. The dentist will ensure the bridge is stable and that the patient is comfortable with the feel and appearance. The dentist can make further adjustments after cementing if required.

Post-procedure care

After the process, patients will receive instructions on how to take care of the new bridge, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene practices prolong the life of the dental bridge and maintain good oral health. The dentist will also schedule follow-up visits to evaluate the patient’s progress.