Longmont Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a great solution for missing or damaged teeth, and if you’re looking for one in Longmont, we can help. Dr. Hedrick has created and placed many bridges with remarkable results, and she can help you as well.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a device where fake teeth are not all directly attached to a mouth’s bone structure. Typically, the teeth at the ends of the bridge are attached to the bone structure (known as abutment teeth) and the center teeth are not (known as pontic teeth).
Why Are They Needed?
A dental bridge is an option if you have one or more missing teeth. Missing teeth are not something you should ignore, as they could lead to several issues, including:
- Bone deterioration
- Teeth shifting
- Trouble eating
Types of Bridges
Traditional
The most common type of dental bridge is a traditional one, which consists of one or more pontic teeth supported by two crowns. Both crowns are rooted into the bone structure by the crown prep, which is part of the natural tooth that has been smoothed down.
Implant-Supported
Like a traditional bridge, an implant-supported bridge uses a dental implant instead of a crown prep to support abutment teeth.
Cantilever
This type uses just one abutment tooth instead of two to support a pontic tooth.
Maryland
This type is rare, and we don’t perform it in our office. The Maryland bridge is only used if there is only one missing tooth, and the prosthetic tooth (pontic) is attached to the tooth on both sides using metal wings.
Dental Bridges vs. Partial Dentures
If you have two or more missing teeth, either a dental bridge or partial denture could be an option. Both have advantages and disadvantages. For instance, a partial denture costs less, but it’s removable. On the other hand, a bridge costs more, but it’s fixed in place.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Our patients typically don’t complain about much pain during this procedure. There tends to be some sensitivity afterward, but it usually wears off quickly. If you’re anxious about this procedure, we offer sedation dentistry to help make you more comfortable.
What Is the Procedure Like?
If a dental implant is needed, the first step is placing the implant. Afterward, we typically wait three months before finishing the procedure because the bone structure surrounding it needs to fully heal.
Traditional bridges and cantilever bridges can be created and placed in one day with our CEREC machine.
What Materials Do We Use in Our Dental Bridges?
We primarily use either zirconia or lithium disilicate, both terrific options and ones we make in our dental office. Both materials have their advantages, and Dr. Hedrick can advise which one would be a better choice for you.
How Do I Care for My Dental Bridge?
As with all teeth and dental devices, good oral care is important. Food particles could get stuck in small gaps and under the bridge itself. For this reason, we suggest using a water flosser every day. Regarding the water flosser, there is a special tip that you can use specifically for bridges called the plaque seeker tip. To learn more, we have an article on water flosser tips.
In addition to the water flosser, there are other types of floss that you can use for bridges such as the bridge flosser.
Of course, it’s also important to see us for dental checkups and exams.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
How long one lasts primarily comes down to two factors: The first has to do with the dentist’s skill level. Your bridge will last longer if your dentist is highly skilled in designing and creating them. The second factor comes down to the patient’s ability to take good care of their bridge.
We often say that, with proper care, you can expect your bridge to last at least ten years, but it’s not uncommon for them to last several decades
How We Make Our Dental Bridges
We make them right here in our office with a CEREC machine instead of sending them out to a lab, which offers two main benefits. First, we have complete control over the manufacturing process, which guarantees a perfect fit. Second, it only takes one day to make, which is very convenient for you.
Are Dental Bridges Covered by Insurance?
Yes, and it’s common for dental insurance to pay 30% to 50% of the cost. If you don’t have dental insurance, we can suggest affordable insurance options for you.
Dr. Hedrick’s Thoughts
“When it comes to missing or damaged teeth, there are several viable solutions from implants and crowns to bridges. Although bridges aren’t always the best option for all patients, I still love them. And it’s not uncommon for our patients to choose them over implants.
Bridges are great devices that look and function extremely well. With recent advances in materials, such as zirconia, bridges are even more efficient than they used to be because these materials enable us to increase the lifespan of the restoration.”
Why Get a Bridge at Longmont Dental Loft?
At Longmont Dental Loft, you can be sure you’re getting a dental bridge with a perfect fit that’s made to last. And our state-of-the-art technology provides convenience, such as digital scans instead of gummy impression material and fewer dental appointments because of same-day service. If you need a dental bridge, you can be sure that Dr. Hedrick and the rest of our team will take good care of you.
