Bridges

Dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. Your existing teeth are used to literally create "a bridge" to cross the area where your tooth is missing. Bridges can be made from: gold, metal, alloys, or porcelain to ensure that they are strong, durable and aesthetically pleasing.

The process of creating a bridge begins by shaping your existing teeth (on either side of the missing tooth) to provide a base for the new bridge. The teeth which are shaped are called "abutment teeth". After the abutment teeth have been shaped, then an impression mold is taken of the area and is sent to the dental lab. In the lab, Dr. Keen uses the mold to create a new bridge that will fit properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge consists of several teeth connected together: 2 crowns that cement onto the abutment teeth, and a middle "pontic" tooth that replaces your missing tooth.

While your permanent bridge is being crafted in the dental lab, you will have a temporary bridge. This temporary will protect the abutments and the gum areas. The temporary will look appealing, and it will fill the missing tooth space. When the permanent bridge has been finished in the dental lab, you will have a follow up appointment to cement the bridge in your mouth.

The bridge may take a little time to get used to, but after a few days it should feel like you have your own teeth back again. You should eat soft foods for the first few days after having your bridge cemented.

If you are missing a tooth, you should strongly consider having it replaced. Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it could also cause structural changes to your mouth and jaw, as well as making it difficult to eat or speak properly.

Speak to Dr. Keen and our staff about questions you may have, and inquire about the recommended method to properly restore your smile today.