Bridges
A bridge is a fixed prosthesis that replaces missing teeth by crowning the adjacent teeth and spanning the missing space with an attached "false" tooth. Unlike a partial denture, a bridge is cemented in place and is not removed. A bridge can be used to replace one or two missing teeth, as long as there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth on which to anchor the bridge. The false tooth part of a bridge is called a pontic. The parts of the bridge that allow attachment to adjacent teeth are called abutments.
Alternative Treatment
Missing teeth may also be replaced through use of a removable partial denture or implants. A removable partial is less expensive than a bridge but is more uncomfortable. Removable prostheses are also not recommended for small areas because of the danger of swallowing or choking on the appliance. Implants involve surgically placing an artificial root on which to place a crown. Implants may not be indicated in all situations, and involve a waiting period for the implanted post to bioattach to the jaw bone.
Life Span
A bridge can last for fifteen -twenty years or longer if properly cared for. The important thing to remember is that decay can occur on abutment teeth even if the teeth are covered by crowns. The margin where the abutment meets the tooth and the space under the pontic are both areas that need careful attention. Proper oral hygiene, use of fluoride, and regular dental checkups will minimize the problem.
Care of Bridge
Since there is a space below the pontic (false tooth), bridge patients must use a special tool to clean the area of food particles. Use of a Proxi-brush or floss threaders is necessary to prevent decay from taking hold in the adjacent teeth. We will show you how to properly care for your bridge.
What a Bridge Looks Like
Bridges are generally made of porcelain covering a precious metal base. In back teeth, we may leave a small metal margin near the gum line because it is softer on the gum, although we can use all porcelain margins if a patient has concerns about the bridge's cosmetic appearance. For front teeth, there are now all ceramic materials available for more natural looking bridge fabrications. However, since the materials have not been used for a long period of time, it is impossible to say whether the life span of these ceramic bridges will be as long as the conventional porcelain fused to metal bridges.
Temporary Bridge
We lightly cement a temporary bridge in place for the two-week period while the porcelain bridge is being fabricated. The patient needs to take care to keep it in place. If it does come off, we can recement it at the office.
Aesthetics
Before we cement a bridge, we ask for the patient's approval of the way it looks. For front teeth bridges, we offer the option of bringing a spouse or friend to approve the aesthetics. It is important for a patient to let us know if they have any concerns about cosmetics before the bridge is cemented; once it is in place, the bridge cannot be replaced for cosmetic reasons without an additional charge.
Possible Complications to Bridges
Sensitivity or pain
Some sensitivity is normal for the first twenty-four hours. If it persists, or if you experience severe pain, contact our office.
Abscess
If the abutment teeth have suffered previous trauma through decay or fracture, there is a possibility that the tooth could abscess in the future; even there may be no indication of it at the time of bridge placement.
"High" feeling
The bridge may need occusal (bite) adjustment after placement. If a bridge (either temporary or porcelain model) does not feel right when chewing or biting, a patient needs to return to the office for adjustment.
