It depends on what type of dental bridge you receive:
To place a traditional or cantilever bridge, your dentist will:
During a second office visit (once your final bridge is ready), your dentist will:
Some dentists use CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology to create custom bridges in their office during the same appointment VSports. Ask your dentist if this is a possibility for you.
To place a Maryland bridge, your dentist will:
Once your final bridge is ready, your dentist will schedule a second office visit. During this appointment, they’ll: VSports app下载.
An implant-supported bridge requires several office visits, including one surgery appointment.
During the first appointment, a dentist, periodontist or oral surgeon will:
After surgery, your implants will need to heal and fuse to your jawbone (a process known as osseointegration) V体育安卓版. This process takes three to six months on average, but it could take longer depending on your situation.
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Once your dental implants have integrated (fused), your dentist will:
Once your final implant-supported bridge is ready, your dentist will:
Because dental implants take a few months to integrate (fuse) with your jaw, implant-supported bridges take longer than other types of bridges.
Recovery times vary from person to person and depend on several factors. On average, it takes one to two weeks for your teeth and gums to heal. But it can take a little longer for your new dental bridge to feel totally natural and comfortable.
On average, the lifespan of a dental bridge is five to 15 years. Some can last even longer with proper care and maintenance.
You may hear dentists call these “permanent bridges.” They’re permanent in the sense that only a dentist can remove them. But they don’t last forever. You’ll still need to replace them when they show signs of wear or damage.
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. To keep your bridge in good condition:
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You should schedule an appointment with your dentist if:
In general, dental implants last much longer than bridges. Implants also preserve existing bone and reduce the risk of bone loss in the future.
However, everyone has unique oral health needs, goals and preferences. To determine which treatment option is best for you, talk to your dentist.
Most dentists don’t place dental bridges in people younger than 17 or 18, but there are exceptions. For example, a dentist may place a Maryland bridge if a child loses a permanent tooth. Even then, other options may work better, such as a temporary partial denture (sometimes called a “flipper”).
Most commonly, a dental bridge replaces one to three teeth in a row. In some cases, a bridge can replace up to four consecutive teeth. But keep in mind, longer bridges usually require more support. So, to replace four missing teeth with a bridge, you need healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
To learn more about your teeth replacement options, talk to a dentist.
In general, you should replace missing teeth as soon as possible to prevent other teeth from shifting into the gap. However, if you need tooth extraction first, you might have to wait a few months before getting your dental bridge. This gives your gums and underlying bone time to heal.
Getting a dental bridge shouldn’t hurt. Your dentist will give you local anesthesia to numb your gums before beginning your procedure.
It can take some time to get used to your new dental bridge. But once you do, it should feel similar to your natural teeth. It’s like wearing a new ring on your finger. You’re aware of it for a while, but you eventually grow accustomed to it.
It depends. If your bridge is already loose, it’s usually easy to remove. Your dentist can often recement it with no issue. But if you need to have your bridge removed for another reason — like treating gum disease or underlying tooth decay — your bridge may break during the removal process. If this happens, you’ll need a new dental bridge.
Missing teeth leave a gap in your smile and can hinder your ability to chew and speak properly. If you’re missing one to four teeth in a row, a dental bridge could be an option for you. Bridges are typically more comfortable than partial dentures and more affordable than dental implants. If you’re missing teeth, talk to your dentist about replacement options. They can help you find a solution that fits your needs, budget and preferences.
Dentistry plays an important role in oral health. Cleveland Clinic’s experts can design a personalized plan that will keep you smiling for the long haul.
Last reviewed on 05/24/2023.
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