Dental Bridges

Bridging “the gap” created by missing teeth

Fixed Dental Bridges in Metro Manila from Cosmo Dental by Dr. Isabelle Segui and Associates

A fixed dental bridge is a non-removable, restorative dentistry appliance that is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist at Cosmo Dental will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type, commonly made of porcelain fused to metal or all ceramic. This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years. However, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

Why do I need a bridge?

A missing tooth is a serious matter. Teeth are made to work together. When you lose a tooth, the nearby teeth may tilt or drift into the empty space. The teeth in the opposite jaw may also shift up or down toward the space. This can affect your bite and place more stress on your teeth and jaw joints, possibly causing pain. Teeth that have tipped or drifted are also harder to clean. This puts them at a higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease. When a tooth is missing, the bone may shrink. If that happens, it may change the way the jawbone supports the lips and cheeks. Over time, this can make your face look older.

Reasons for a fixed bridge:

Fill space of missing teeth
Maintain facial shape
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
Restore chewing and speaking ability
Restore your smile
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

Position of teeth immediately after a tooth is lost

If the tooth is not replaced, other teeth can drift out of position and change the bite

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, our dentists prepares the two anchoring teeth by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. Also, a temporary bridge is developed and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.

i. Missing Tooth (Edentulous Site)

ii. Teeth next to the space are prepared for placement of the bridge

iii. The custom-made bridge is placed over the prepared teeth

iv. The bridge is cemented into place

3 unit Fixed Bridge LR with Pink Porcelain done at Cosmo Dental

3 unit Fixed Bridge LL with Pink Porcelain done at Cosmo Dental

Bridge Cemented in on Lower Left and Lower Right Arch

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.Replacing missing or severely damaged teeth is critical to restoring health and wellness to your smile. Call Cosmo Dental today to learn about our dental restorations or schedule your appointment online.

What are dental crowns and bridges made out of?

Dental crowns and bridges can be made out of a variety of materials. At Cosmo Dental, we use only the highest quality local dental laboratories. Because we care for your health, we also require our laboratories to certify the materials used in the restorations we place. We use only high noble metals in crowns and bridges that require metal sub-structures. We also frequently fabricate all-ceramic crowns that have no metal in them at all – these crowns and bridges are typically made out of a zirconia or lithium silicate material. You will never find any toxic materials in crowns or bridges or any prosthesis that we place in your mouth.

Just like crowns, there are many choices of material available, and we will help you decide what type of bridge is best for your situation.

Do I need implants for the bridge?

Dental implants may be used to support a bridge when several teeth are missing. Implants are posts that are surgically placed into the jaw. Over time, the bone grows around the implants to hold them in place.

A key benefit of implants is that they don’t need support from the surrounding teeth.
Candidates for dental implants should be in good general health and have enough bone to support an implant. For some patients, implants help preserve the jawbone where teeth have been lost.
Implants may be placed in one day or might require multiple visits depending on your dentist’s treatment plan.

i. Missing Teeth

ii. A bridge is placed on implants

iii. After the implant bridge restoration is placed

Post-operative instructions following a crown or bridge procedure

Following a crown or bridge preparation appointment, numbness from the local anesthetic will likely last for a few hours. Try to avoid eating or drinking (particularly hot beverages) until the numbness begins wearing off to avoid any unnecessary trauma to your lips, cheek, or tongue.

You will likely have a provisional (or temporary) crown/bridge in place following your first visit. These provisional restorations are meant to be removed easily in a few weeks, which means there is a possibility it breaks or falls off prior to your next appointment. If your temporary crown/bridge falls off, you can try to fit it back into place, but always your dentist for guidance. To help keep your temporary in-place, avoid flossing in that area. Also, avoid eating anything sticky or crunchy on that tooth until the permanent crown is put into place.

Following a crown or bridge preparation appointment, it is common for the tooth to be sensitive or sore for a few days following the procedure. It is okay to take over-the-counter Tylenol or Advil to relieve symptoms. If you believe your symptoms are out-of-the-ordinary, do not hesitate to call our office.

Caring for your bridge

A bridge can fail if the support teeth or the jawbone is damaged by dental disease. Follow these tips for good oral health:

Brush your teeth twice a day and floss or use another between-the-teeth cleaner once a day. Brushing and cleaning between the teeth helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that is always forming on the teeth.
Always clean between your teeth and under the bridge. There are many kinds of flossers, picks or little brushes—ask your dentist or hygienist what type will work well with your bridge.
See your dentist regularly for exams and professional cleanings.
Eat a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dental bridges are chosen to restore the appearance, function, and bite alignment compromised by missing teeth. They can improve aesthetics, speech, and the ability to chew comfortably.

The process involves preparing the adjacent teeth (abutments) to support the bridge, taking impressions, and placing a temporary bridge. A custom bridge is then created and permanently bonded during a subsequent appointment.

Yes, dental bridges can be designed to replace one or more missing teeth. The number of pontics and abutments depends on the specific case and the patient’s oral health.

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental bridges can last for many years, typically a decade or more. Good oral hygiene practices and preventive care contribute to their longevity.

The process is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient’s comfort during the preparation of the abutment teeth. Patients may experience some soreness afterward, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Schedule a Visit Today!

Book An Appointment