A dental bridge is a series of artificial teeth. The bridgework is supported by an anchor on either side of the gap to hold the false tooth in place. With a bridge, we can restore one or more consecutive missing teeth. Joseph P. Cavallo offers dental bridge treatment in Woodbridge, VA. Dental bridge treatments are part of our restorative dentistry services.
A bridge uses the support of natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of the two. When natural teeth support the bridgework, we place a dental crown for additional support and stability.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits for patients missing one or more teeth. Of course, bridges fill the gap of your missing teeth. But, they can provide many benefits to your oral health:
- Prevent Teeth from Shifting: When a tooth is missing, the teeth next to the empty space can slowly move or tilt into that gap. This can cause your teeth to become crooked or your bite to feel uneven. A dental bridge fills in the empty space and stops your natural teeth from shifting. This helps keep your smile straight and your bite working properly.
- Protect Your Remaining Teeth: Your teeth work together when you chew, sharing the pressure and force. When you’re missing a tooth, the other teeth have to work harder, which can cause them to wear down faster or even become damaged. A dental bridge spreads out the chewing forces evenly across all your teeth. This helps protect your natural teeth from extra stress and keeps them healthy longer.
- Keep Your Jaw and Face Healthy: Missing teeth can change the way your jaw feels and how your face looks. When teeth shift into empty spaces, it can cause problems like jaw pain, headaches, or trouble opening and closing your mouth, which are signs of TMJ disorders. Bridges help keep your teeth in their correct positions, which supports the shape of your jaw and face. This helps prevent jaw problems and keeps your facial structure looking natural.
We prefer implants to support a dental bridge because they provide more benefits than traditional options. Implant-supported dentures also come with more benefits. Because implant posts are permanent and stable, they restore your full bite function.
We also don’t need to prepare natural teeth to support your bridge if you get implants. If you have healthy teeth, we don’t need to damage them so you can get replacement teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
The right bridge for you depends on your number of missing teeth and oral health. Multiple types of bridges are available to patients with missing teeth.
Traditional Bridge
The most common type is a traditional dental bridge. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) held in place by dental crowns on the natural teeth next to the gap. These neighboring teeth, called abutment teeth, need to be prepared by removing some enamel to make room for the crowns. Traditional bridges are strong and work well for replacing molars.
Cantilever Bridge
This is similar to a traditional bridge but is supported by a crown on only one side of the gap. Cantilever bridges benefit patients with only one natural tooth next to the missing tooth space. Dentists place these bridges in areas of the mouth with less bite pressure because they can create extra force on the supporting tooth.
Maryland Bonded Bridge
A Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework with “wings” that are bonded to the backs of the natural teeth on either side of the gap. Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridges don’t require crowns or as much alteration of the neighboring teeth. However, they are not as strong and are typically used for front teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is anchored by dental implants instead of crowns or frameworks. Implants are surgically placed in the jawbone to provide a strong, stable base. This type of bridge is ideal for patients missing multiple teeth and offers a more permanent and durable solution.
Dental Bridge Treatment in Woodbridge, VA
A dental bridge is a viable treatment option for anyone with one or more missing teeth. They may be either fixed or removable, and our dentist can help you choose which type is right for you.
We follow a simple process for treatment with dental bridges. This process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to examine the health of the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and other support structures. You may have an existing dental bridge or teeth that need extraction. Regardless of your condition, the dentist will create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs, goals, and budget.
The dental bridge will be fabricated in a dental laboratory. You may have a temporary bridge to wear in the intermediate time period. In approximately 2 to 3 weeks from your initial visit, you will return so we can fit the final restoration.
How to Care for a Dental Bridge
Taking care of your dental bridge will keep it clean and help maintain your oral health. You want to take care of your dental bridge properly every day. We recommend that you follow these steps as part of dental bridge maintenance.
Brush Your Teeth
Just like your natural teeth, you should brush your dental bridge at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and the bridge. Make sure to brush all surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush the surrounding teeth and gums as well.
Floss Daily
Flossing is just as crucial for your dental bridge as it is for your natural teeth. Our dentist will teach you a special technique for flossing under and around the artificial tooth or teeth in your bridge. This helps remove plaque and food particles that can get stuck in those areas. You want to be gentle when you floss to avoid damaging the bridge or your gums.
Sometimes, regular dental floss might be tricky to use around a bridge. In that case, consider using an interdental brush or floss threaders. These tools can help you clean hard-to-reach areas more easily.
Make Regular Dental Visits
Visit our dentist at least twice a year for routine examinations and cleanings. Dr. Cavallo will check the condition of your dental bridge and surrounding teeth to ensure everything is healthy. He can also help clean areas that may be hard for you to reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to learn more? We’re here to help you. Learn more about dental bridge treatment in our Woodbridge, VA, dental office with answers to these common questions.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care, dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or longer. The lifespan depends on factors like your oral hygiene habits, the materials used, and the health of the supporting teeth or implants. Brushing twice daily, flossing around your bridge, and visiting Dr. Cavallo regularly will help extend its life. Avoiding very hard or sticky foods can also prevent unnecessary damage.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of a dental bridge will depend on the number and location of the missing teeth as well as the type of bridge and materials chosen. Dr. Cavallo accepts all dental insurance and will handle all necessary billing and paperwork. We also offer financing through CareCredit for patients who are concerned about cost.
Can you repair broken bridgework?
Although dental bridges are built to last a long time, problems can still arise. Dr. Cavallo does offer dental bridge repair. If a bridge happens to chip, break, or come loose, you should contact Dr. Cavallo right away. Depending on the extent of the damage, we may be able to cement the bridge or replace it altogether.
Restore Your Missing Teeth
Do you have one or more missing teeth? Fix tooth gaps with a custom bridge. Call for dental bridge treatment in Woodbridge, VA, at 571-520-9306. You can also schedule an appointment with us online.