DENTAL BRIDGES

Our doctors are prepared with the best options for your dental health.

All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss doesn't necessarily have to occur as you age, but if you do lose teeth they must be replaced to maintain proper function of your mouth. Fortunately, there are options for correcting tooth loss.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A Bridge is a cemented (non-removable) restoration that is attached to the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth. This restoration consists of two crowns that are cemented on top of two natural “anchor” teeth with an attached artificial tooth (pontic) that sits on top of the gum tissue and in between the two natural teeth. Thus the pontic fills the space where the tooth was lost and is permanently anchored to the two adjacent natural teeth.

Until dental implants were developed, bridges were our only permanent and non-removable way to replace missing teeth. And they were highly successful! Today there are some cases where a bridge would be a more ideal treatment choice than an implant. However, in most cases today, due to the success of implants, our ability to graft bone and the benefits implants provide to our jaw bone and surrounding structures, our doctors will normally discuss implants for replacing missing teeth. Dr. Pam and Dr. Burke are always happy to discuss different treatment options and the advantages and disadvantages of bridges or implants for replacing missing teeth.

Benefits of replacing missing teeth:

Fill gaps
Maintain facial shape and the appearance of your face
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Maintain hygiene and gum tissue health of remaining teeth
Restore chewing and speaking function
Improve your smile
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

How does the process of getting a Dental Bridge work?

Getting a bridge usually requires two visits. At the first visit, the two “anchor” teeth are prepared to accommodate the crows. Next, we take a highly detailed impression from which your bridge will be fabricated. We then fabricate a temporary bridge that you can wear while we fabricate your permanent bridge.

At the second visit, your new bridge will be carefully fitted, adjusted, and cemented to ensure a comfortable bite and fit. You will receive instructions on proper daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits to extend the life of your new bridge.

How do I take care of my bridge?

A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. Our dental team will review flossing with you at your cement appointment. Excellent homecare is critical as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.

Porteous & Burke Family, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry.

Serving Rodeo, CA and surrounding areas: Hercules, Pinole, and Martinez.