At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers dental bridges as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
What Are Dental Bridges and How Are the Restorations Used?
Dental bridges are designed to replace missing teeth. The restorations are helpful as they can improve functionality, fix one's bite, and remedy such conditions as temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. Adding a dental bridge can also lessen the risk of tooth decay and improve one's speech.
What Types of Bridges Are Used?
Dental bridges are represented by fixed bridges in the form of conventional bridges, resin-bonded bridges (also called Maryland bonded bridges), and cantilever bridges.
The Conventional Bridge
The conventional or traditional bridge is most frequently used to replace missing teeth. It is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or porcelain.
A Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge is designed to support a replacement tooth on just one side.
A Resin-bonded Bridge
A resin-bonded bridge is typically located toward the front part of the mouth where the force of the bite is less pronounced. The restoration is made up of a denture fused to metal and affixed with a resin to abutment teeth.
How Is the Site Prepared for the Bridge?
In the case of a cantilever bridge or conventional bridge, the teeth surrounding the missing tooth or teeth are shaped. Crowns are then applied to the shaped teeth and affixed to a pontic or artificial tooth. Prep time for a resin-bonded bridge takes less time as the bridge is generally used to replace the front teeth.
To prepare the site, the dentist usually takes x-rays of the bridge site along with preoperative photos. Usually a bridge consists of two cemented crowns on each side of one or two pontics or false teeth. Impressions are taken after the abutment teeth are prepared for the bridge.
What Is Included in the Steps for the Procedure?
During the initial visit, the dentist will examine the teeth and gums and will prepare the teeth for a bridge installation. A local anesthetic is given during this process. An impression is made with a putty-type material, which is utilized to produce a model for the teeth. The bridge is designed based on the resulting model to ensure the fit of the restoration.
While the bridge is being made in the lab, the dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to wear until your second visit. The procedure is completed on the second visit, when the permanent bridge is fitted and affixed to the space with cement.
What Materials Go into the Making of a Bridge?
Dental bridges may be made of porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal (including gold). The type of bridge you ultimately choose will be based on its function, placement in the mouth, and the appearance and cost of the restoration. Again, dental bridges are made with porcelain and gold or another metal or with durable metal-free materials such as alumina or zirconia.
What Is Involved in the After-care?
After installation of the bridge, the dentist provides patients with information on maintaining the bridge. A special type of bridge threader is used to remove food particles and plaque surrounding the bridge and between the pontic or pontics and gums. Brushing with a toothpaste containing fluoride should be done twice a day.
Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.
How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for dental bridges varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance may cover the cost of dental bridges. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your dental bridges coverage.
We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket dental bridges costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our dental bridges patients.
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Dental Bridges FAQs
Is a bridge cheaper than an implant?
Yes, in many cases, a bridge is a cheaper option than a dental implant. Furthermore, many dental insurance providers will cover dental bridge procedures, but may offer limited or no coverage for dental implants.
Can a dental bridge be done in one day?
No, a dental bridge requires two visits for completion. During the first visit, we examine the mouth and prepare the teeth for a dental bridge. We will also provide you with a temporary bridge at this time. After our lab designs your bridge, you will return for a second visit to receive the permanent dental bridge.
Can you get a dental bridge on front teeth?
Yes! Dental bridges are most commonly used to replace front teeth. At University Centre Dental Associates, we specialize in various types of bridges to help you find the optimal solution regardless of your treatment goals.
Are dental bridges painful?
Prior to the dental bridge procedure, your mouth will be numbed to minimize any pain or discomfort. You may experience some soreness or discomfort in the days following your dental bridge treatment, but many patients experience a full and smooth recovery within one to two weeks.
What are the disadvantages of dental bridges?
There are a few disadvantages to consider with dental bridges. First of all, they may not last as long as dental implants, which means that patients may eventually need additional treatments. Furthermore, bridges can replace missing teeth, but not bone loss in the jaw. Implants can slow this bone loss, but bridges cannot. There may be additional disadvantages depending on the type of dental bridge received. During your visit, we can discuss the pros and cons of each dental bridge so you have a full understanding of your treatment options.
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!