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If you have been told that you need a dental bridge, you probably have several questions including what it is, how it works, and how much it will cost. Below are some frequently asked questions about dental bridges.
A dental bridge is a false tooth, also known as a pontic. Used to replace a missing tooth, the false tooth is fused between two porcelain crowns. The crowns are attached to the teeth on each side of the false tooth, and the false tooth is suspended between them, like a bridge.
Missing spaces between teeth increase the risk of other dental problems. Other teeth can drift out of position. Gum disease and decay can occur. Bridges fill that missing space, and can reduce those risks. Dental bridges also help correct bite issues and can even improve your speech.
Additionally, dental bridges are a pleasing aesthetic alternative to missing teeth. They can increase your confidence and heighten your cheerfulness.
Bridges must be properly maintained by regular brushing and flossing, but they will last upwards of ten years.
Anyone who is missing teeth is usually a candidate for a dental bridge.
If spaces between teeth are left unfilled, they can cause damage to your other teeth. Your other teeth may drift out of position. Additionally, there is an increased susceptibility for decay and gum disease in those other teeth.
Typically, it takes two appointments to install a dental bridge.
During the first appointment, Dr. Kissinger-Blakeley will prepare your teeth for the bridge. A mild anesthetic is applied to your mouth, and she will clear an area surrounding the teeth on each side of the space, to accommodate for the thickness of the false tooth. Note: If these particular teeth have fillings, parts of the fillings may be left in place, to help as a foundation for the bridge.
During this first procedure, Dr. Kissinger-Blakeley will then make an impression of your mouth. This impression is sent to a lab, where the bridge, false teeth, and crowns will be made. While this is going on -- between your first and second appointment -- a temporary bridge will be placed in your mouth. This temporary dental bridge serves to protect your teeth and gums.
In approximately two weeks you will go back to Willow Creek Dental for your second appointment. Your temporary bridge will be removed and the new, permanent dental bridge will be fitted by Dr. Kissinger-Blakeley. After being checked, and adjusted for any bite discrepancies, your new bridge will then be cemented to your teeth.
There are three types of dental bridges:
The goal is to achieve a brighter smile without forsaking a natural look. Typically, your front teeth are the whitest, your eye teeth are the darkest, and molars are a shade between the two. How white your dental bridge will become varies depending upon the current condition and structure of your natural teeth. Dr. Kissinger-Blakeley will use her expertise to determine the appropriate shade.
The average cost of a single fixed bridge varies, and depends upon what type of bridge is needed. Typically, dental bridge costs range from $500 to $900 per tooth. Dental insurance can cover in full or in part the cost of a bridge, however Willow Creek Dental offers other financing options including payment plans.
If you are interested in learning more about a dental bridge, contact Willow Creek Dental today at 303-779-2797 to schedule your free consultation.