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Bridges
Lets talk about which option works best for you.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may notice a difference in chewing and speaking. Bridges can help restore your smile as well as the function of your teeth.
A bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth and literally “bridges” the gap where one or more teeth used to be, attaching to surrounding teeth for support.
Fixed bridges, also called fixed partial dentures, will be permanently placed by Dr. Culler.
An implant bridge attaches artificial teeth directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue - to a dental implant.
Dr. Culler will create a treatment plan which works best for your individual case.
What to expect during this procedure?
The procedure for a bridge is very similar to that of a crown. Essentially, the tooth in front and behind the missing tooth both receiving a crown while the missing tooth is being replaced with a “fake” tooth.
To review the process of receiving a crown, please feel free to refer to our CAD CAM Crown page, which outlines this process in detail.
Similar to the crown procedure, we have the technology to mill the bridge in-office using our Planmeca CAD CAM mill. Once the "preps" of your surrounding teeth are completed, we will use our intra-oral scanner to upload a detailed 3-D image to our design software.
Dr. Culler is highly skilled in creating digital restorations to customize shape, size, and details for your bridge that perfectly resemble your natural smile. The design is then sent to our mill and precisely created for a comfortable fit for your permanent bridge which is now ready to be bonded in place.
If you have any questions about bridges or a question during or after your procedure please feel free ask us!
What to expect after your bridge is placed?
You will now have restored function in that area of your mouth! It is important to take care of your surrounding healthy teeth while protect your new appliance by keeping it clean and preventing it from breaking.
Brush your new bridge as though it is your own teeth. We will teach you techniques and give you product recommendations to aide you in flossing beneath the bridge. Your new bridge is sturdy, however, we caution to avoid chewing ice and other very hard objects, as it is possible to fracture a portion of the bridge material.