Dental Bridge Procedure in Henderson, NV

How the Dental Bridge Procedure Works

Dental bridges offer an effective solution for individuals with missing teeth. They work by bridging the gap between teeth, anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to the surrounding natural teeth (abutments). The dental bridge process involves several steps: consultation and evaluation, preparing the abutment teeth and placing a temporary bridge, fitting and placement, and a follow-up appointment.

Components of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is composed of the following elements:

1. Pontic: This refers to the artificial teeth, or tooth, that replace the missing natural teeth. Pontics can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination of these.
2. Abutment Teeth: These are the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap, supporting the bridge. If natural teeth are used, they are often reduced in size to accommodate the bridge.
3. Retainers or Dental Crowns: These are fixed onto the abutment teeth to hold the pontic in place. They can be made from materials similar to the pontics and can either be full crowns covering the entire abutment tooth or partial coverage like inlays or onlays.
4. Connectors: These parts connect the pontic to the retainers or crowns. They can be rigid (as in conventional bridges) or non-rigid (as in some types of removable bridges).
5. Framework: In some bridges, a metal or porcelain framework provides additional strength and support.

The Dental Bridge Process

Consultation and Evaluation

The initial step in the dental bridge process is a consultation with our Henderson, NV dentist. During this appointment, Dr. Dadon-Harris will assess your oral health, including your teeth and gums, and discuss your options for replacing missing teeth. They may also take digital X-rays and impressions of your existing teeth to create a model of your mouth, ensuring your custom bridge fits perfectly.

At this appointment, they’ll recommend the most suitable dental bridge type. They may suggest a traditional dental bridge, implant-supported bridges, or another alternative.

Preparing Abutment Teeth and Placing a Temporary Bridge

Once our dentist has confirmed that a dental bridge is the best option for you, they’ll prepare the abutment teeth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth that will support the bridge. Dr. Dadon-Harris will then take another impression of your teeth to create a mold of your mouth, which will be used to make your permanent bridge.

While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, we’ll place a temporary dental bridge to protect your abutment teeth and help you eat and speak normally while waiting for your permanent restoration.

Fitting and Placement

Once your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to our Henderson, NV dental office for the fitting and placement appointment. During this visit, Dr. Dadon-Harris will remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent bridge to your abutment teeth. They’ll make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and use dental cement to set it in place.

Follow-up Appointment

After your bridge has been placed, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure everything is healing properly. During this visit, Dr. Dadon-Harris will check the fit of your bridge and make any necessary adjustments. They’ll also provide instructions on how to care for your new bridge to ensure its longevity.

Post-Procedure Care

Following your dental bridge procedure, you’ll need to adhere to certain practices, including:

• Oral Hygiene Habits: Maintaining the health and strength of your remaining teeth is crucial for the longevity of the dental bridge. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential.
• Dietary Adjustments: Initially, you should stick to eating soft foods and avoid anything that could exert undue pressure on the new bridge.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular dental visits can ensure the bridge remains intact and the adjacent teeth stay healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions