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Bridges

Bridging the Gap

Why put up with that unsightly gap from the loss of a failed tooth or teeth, when we can restore the natural look and function of your smile in just a few weeks’ time. Bridgework is just one of the options available at Generations Dental for tooth replacement. Read more to learn how this option might be right for you.

What is a Bridge?

Bridges are natural looking dental appliances that can replace a section of missing teeth. They are custom made to restore the natural contour of teeth and establish or maintain the proper bite relationship between the upper and lower teeth.

Bridges are sometimes referred to as fixed partial dentures, because they are bonded/ glued, directly to existing teeth or even implants. Unlike removable dentures, which you can take out and clean, your dentist can only remove a fixed bridge

Generally, the teeth or implants on either side of the space, bridge abutments, are needed to support or anchor the appliance, much like the ends of a bridge over a highway. Most typically crowns are custom fabricated for the teeth adjacent to the space to be filled and fake teeth are suspended from one to the other, bridging the gap.

The Bridge Procedure

Typical bridges are two visit procedures needing lab work and entail:

1st visit

  • The area around the target teeth is numbed, and isolated for the procedure
  • The teeth are prepared or reduced to provide adequate space
  • A mold is made of your existing teeth, which allows custom crafting by our dental technicians
  • Esthetic temporary teeth are made for a typical two week interim period.

2nd visit

  • The area around the target teeth is numbed, and isolated for the procedure
  • The restoration is tried in and you approve the color, shape and fit
  • The tooth and restoration is cleaned and conditioned
  • The bridge is bonded to your teeth/ implants
  • Adhesive is removed and everything is cleaned and polished
  • You get to show off your new smile

Benefits of Bridgework

Bridgework is a dependable proven strategy for tooth replacement with benefits of:

  • Replacement teeth look, feel and act like real teeth
  • Short turnaround time, usually two weeks
  • Moderate cost
  • Keeps adjacent teeth from shifting or tipping

Several styles of bridgework exist and can be tailored for an endless amount of clinical situations. You can count on Dr. Jim and Dr. Kelly to find a solution for you that fits your needs, desires, lifestyle and budget.