If
a tooth is lost, it is important to replace it with a false
(or artificial) tooth as soon as possible. This procedure
will prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of line
and causing other problems.
A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and is held
firmly in place by healthy teeth on each side of the missing
one(s). You cannot remove a bridge. It is permanent.
A tooth on either side of the space is needed to support the
bridge. These teeth are referred to as the abutment teeth.
The abutment teeth are prepared by reducing the tooth structure
around and on top of the tooth. This creates space for the
bridge to fit over the abutment teeth.
An impression is then taken of the teeth and sent to a lab.
The lab then uses the impression to create a bridge that is
custom to your teeth. This process takes about one week. You
will leave the office with a temporary bridge made by the
dentist at chair side. This temporary will protect the teeth
from sensitivity and shifting while your permanent bridge
is being made.
Here's
How A Bridge Is Made:
Step
1
The
teeth on each side of the missing one(s) are prepared
for crowns.
Step
2
The
false tooth (or teeth) and two crowns are custom-made
in a dental lab as one piece.
Step
3
The
unit is placed in your mouth. The crowns are cemented
to your two healthy teeth on each side of the missing
one(s).
A bridge should last for about 10 years, if you take good
care of it. Your dentist will show you how to use a floss
threader to floss under and around the false tooth (or teeth)
in the middle of the bridge.
