Bridges
Cosmetically, the loss of a tooth can be devastating. Functionally, it can cause problems chewing. But of even greater consequence, the loss of a tooth may create a cascading effect that leads to the instability and eventual loss of adjacent teeth as well.
The stability of our teeth relies upon a number of factors. These include the bone in which they are set, the soft tissue that surrounds them, and the presence of adjacent teeth. As a general rule, regular hygiene keeps the surrounding tissue healthy, while adjacent teeth help keep them firmly seated in their respective bone sockets. However, the situation changes when, for any number of reasons, an adjacent tooth is no longer present.
When a tooth is removed, it leaves an empty bone
socket. Soft tissue grows over and seals the gap. In time, teeth
adjacent to the missing tooth begin to drift
toward the vacant opening. The
reason they begin to drift is
that pressure applied when chewing slowly breaks down the bone
that borders with the empty socket. The bone that sets between
our
teeth is much thinner than the bone; next to our cheek, on one
side, and our tongue and pallet, on the other. As the socket that
surrounds them becomes eroded, they continue to crouch toward the open
gap, until they become; unstable and prone to infection.
A bridge splints two or more teeth together, creating
a
single strong unit that functionally fills the gap and provides
stability to adjacent teeth, while cosmetically they continue
to
appear separated.
Bridges are produced in a dental laboratory and with proper hygiene often last a life time. A bridge may be made of acrylic, porcelain, metal, or porcelain fused to metal (PFM). Metals include gold alloy, palladium or a base-metal alloy of nickel or chromium. Acrylic and porcelain bridges are generally reserved for front (anterior) teeth. Metal and PFM are used on molars and other teeth that have high occlusionary forces applied by opposing teeth.
Typically, a bridge unit requires two or more visits to
complete. During the
first
appointment, the tooth surfaces are prepared to support the
planned
bridge. 
A
precision impression is then taken of the prepared surface,
and a
temporary crowns or "caps" are placed on the teeth until the next
visit.
The impression, together with oclussal models are then sent to
the dental laboratory, where technicians skillfully craft and
cast
the bridge and return it to the dental clinic to be set.
During the second visit, the temporary crowns are removed, and using special adhesives, the bridge is seated and adjusted for perfect occlusion.
A bridge is generally not removable, requiring special care and close hygiene. However, with twice daily brushing and flossing, as well as periodic cleaning by a dental professional, a bridge may be expected to provide many years of reliable service.
Deadwood Dental provides a full range restorations, from gold and porcelain to CEREC crowns and bridges produced right in our office. Each situation is different and only a careful examination and close consultation will determine what will work best for you.
Please feel free to discuss any questions you may have regarding the content in our website with either Dr. Hopper or Dr. Mills. Either will be more than happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
You may reach the clinic at 605-578-3810 or 800-641-2035,
or
email us at:
deadwooddental@mato.com