A dental bridge is a device used to replace a missing tooth by placing an artificial tooth between two adjacent teeth and permanently affixing it to the adjacent teeth. There are several types of dental bridges, but each is custom-made to fit the patient’s arch. Dental bridges require that the two teeth adjacent to the missing tooth be shaped to accept the bridge. Crowns are placed on the shaped teeth and attached to the new artificial tooth, forming a bridge.

If a single tooth is missing between two other teeth, a dental bridge can be used. For years, the dental bridge was the most reliable way to replace a single missing tooth. Today, advances in dental implants make them a popular choice for replacing a single tooth because a dental implant doesn’t impact the adjacent teeth and preserves the bone in the area of the missing tooth.

Dental bridge side effects are generally rare. Like any procedure that involves your gums, there a risk of gum infection or inflammation, but that is rare. Your dentist will also consult with you prior to the procedure to assure you don’t have allergies to the materials being used.

The biggest issue isn’t a side effect, but the fact that with a dental bridge two healthy teeth need to be altered to replace one missing tooth. A dental bridge is a permanent device that requires two healthy teeth adjacent the missing tooth to be shaped to accept the crowns of the new dental bridge.

Dental Implants are the standard of care for replacing missing teeth today. With dental implants, you can choose a single tooth implant, restore several missing teeth or restore all your teeth. While dental implants are more costly than dental bridges, the benefits are significantly greater, like not needing to modify nearby healthy teeth or replace the bridge years down the road.

With a bridge, it is more important than ever to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly. If you do not control the buildup of food debris and plaque–the sticky film of bacteria formed from food acids–your teeth and gums can become infected, requiring further treatment and resulting in possible loss of the bridge. You may also use floss threaders that help remove bacteria from hard to reach spaces between the bridge and adjacent teeth and gums.

If you maintain optimal oral hygiene care, you can expect your fixed bridge to last as many as 8-10 years, or even longer.

Replacing missing teeth should actually make eating easier. Until you become accustomed to the bridge, eat soft foods that have been cut into small pieces.

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Now that we’ve placed a temporary bridge, it’s important to follow these recommendations to ensure the success of your final restoration:

Chewing and eating

If we used an anesthetic during the procedure, avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off. Avoid chewing for at least one  half-hour to allow the temporary cement to set.

To keep your temporary in place, avoid eating hard or sticky foods, especially chewing gum. If possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.

Brushing and flossing

Brush normally, but floss very carefully. We may recommend special floss, brushes, or other cleaning aids to keep the area free of bacteria.

If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure, use desensitizing toothpaste. If sensitivity increases or persists beyond a few days, call us.

Medication and discomfort

Take antibiotics or other medications only as directed. To reduce any discomfort or swelling, rinse your mouth three times a day with warm salt water. Use about one teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water. It’s normal for your gums to be sore for several days.

When to call us

Call us if your temporary bridge comes off. Save the temporary so we can recement it. It’s very important for the proper fit of your final bridge that your temporary stay in place.

Call our office if your bite feels uneven, you have persistent sensitivity or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns.

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