Dental Bridges Dental bridges can be used to replace a missing tooth. A bridge is usually made up of a replacement tooth, with a crown on either side. These are attached to teeth adjacent to the space. The whole bridge is cemented into place using a strong dental adhesive, allowing the bridge to withstand normal chewing forces. It is not removable by the patient. All three parts are cemented together so that the crown supports the new tooth. For people affected by the loss of teeth, we advise you to visit our professional dentist at East Portland Dentistry for top-notch dental services. The bridge will mimic the existing tooth by its natural look, shape, and function. We also make them according to patient preference by customizing each bridge for the individual. Dental bridges can help restore you smile and fill in the missing gaps in your teeth. Our dental services also address severe cases where patients needing full mouth rehabilitation can get their problems sorted. If you have a lot of missing teeth, our professionals may recommend dentures or dental implants instead. What to Expect During the ProcedurePlacement of a bridge requires at least two separate appointments. The first appointment will entail getting the patient very numb with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort during the entire procedure. The abutment teeth on either side of the space will be reduced approximately a millimeter to provide space for the bridge in the mouth. A temporary bridge will be custom-fitted to wear while the permanent bridge is completed. At the second appointment, the temporary is removed and the permanent bridge is fitted to accommodate the patient's bite, function, and esthetics. Upon patient approval, the permanent bridge is cemented with a biocompatible cement. Types of Dental BridgesThere are many types of dental bridges, including the following: Traditional BridgeThe most common type of bridge is of traditional design incorporating two supporting teeth around a space of a missing tooth. (See above picture) The main advantage to this type of bridge is that it does not come in and out of the mouth. The biggest disadvantage is that the patient will have two of their surrounding teeth permanently altered/reduced down. If either of these two teeth fail due to fracture or caries, the whole bridge fails. An average bridge lasts approximately 7-10 years and will need to be replaced periodically. Cantilever BridgeCantilever bridges are a possible alternative to a traditional bridge when strength is not as important. Instead of reducing two teeth around the missing tooth space, only one is prepped. The bridge is supported by a single tooth that attaches to the pontic replacing the missing tooth. It is cemented in a similar manner to a traditional bridge and is not removable by the patient. Maryland BridgeMaryland bridges are the most conservative of the bridge types. A tooth-like pontic replaces the missing tooth. The Maryland bridge is attached to the surrounding teeth with small tabs bonded to the back of these teeth. Little or no reduction is required but these bridges often need to be rebonded periodically due to chewing and biting forces that dislodge them. They can be made from zirconium, porcelain fused to metal, or composite restorative material, and are often quite esthetic. Implant Supported BridgeWe also offer implant-supported bridges designed according to the patient's mouth structure and preference. Implant bridges utilize two or more implants to support the bridge replacing missing teeth. They can look and feel like natural teeth and have the added benefit of never getting cavities or gum disease. Although cost can be more expensive initially, their longevity can outweigh the maintenance and replacement expense of a traditional bridge. For bookings and appointments, contact us at (971) 484-1652 and let the professionals at East Portland Dentistry take care of your dental needs. |
 Phone(971) 484-1652 HoursMonday – 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Tuesday – 7:00 am - 5:00 pm Wednesday – 8:00 am - 1:00 pm Thursday – 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Friday – 8:00 am - 5:00 pm |
