As an experienced restorative dentist, Dr. Gerald offers several restorative dental services to replace any number of missing teeth. If you are missing one or several consecutive teeth, Dr. Gerald can provide you with a dental bridge in Vienna, VA. He will work with you to create a custom dental treatment plan that meets your oral health concerns.
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic that restores consecutive missing teeth. Our modern dental bridges look and feel like natural teeth, We can secure a bridge in place by attaching it to adjacent teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges are an effective way to restore the appearance and function of your smile, as well as improve your ability to speak clearly and chew food comfortably. Dr. Gerald helps our patients discover the best dental restoration for their needs, whether it’s a dental bridge, denture, or implants.
Dental Bridges in Vienna, VA
Dr. Matthew Gerald offers dental bridge treatment at his dental office in Vienna, VA. He works with a local dental lab to ensure that our dental bridges are precise and comfortable for our patients. Dr. Gerald can also provide implant-supported dental bridges for longer-lasting results. There are many benefits to replacing missing teeth, particularly rows of lost teeth.
A dental bridge is a cosmetic tooth replacement that consists of two or more dental crowns, also known as abutment teeth. The abutments act as anchors that support the prosthetic teeth (or pontics) in between them. A pontic is made from a type of high-strength porcelain called Zirconia. Natural teeth or dental implants on both sides of the gap support these pontics. There are three main types of dental bridges.
- Traditional Bridge. A traditional bridge is the most common type of dental bridge and consists of a dental crown that sits on top of the two anchor teeth or dental implants on either side of the pontic.
- Cantilever Bridge. A dentist uses a cantilever bridge when there are only teeth on one side of the pontic to support the bridge. Because of this, they aren’t as strong as a traditional bridge and aren’t great for using in the back of a person’s mouth where they could easily break.
- Maryland-bonded Bridge. A Maryland dental bridge is a dental restoration technique that replaces missing teeth using a bridge that is bonded to teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge consists of a metal framework and porcelain crowns that mimic the look of natural teeth. A dentist often uses this type of bridge when there are healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
If you decide to get a fixed bridge that is not secured to dental implants, the process will be faster and cost less. In this case, Dr. Gerald will secure two dental crowns (which are located on each of the bridge) to two adjacent teeth to hold the bridge in place. He will have to reduce these two adjacent teeth to make room for the crowns.
First, he will start the traditional dental bridge procedure by numbing your mouth. Then, he will prepare the abutment teeth for their dental crowns by smoothing them down and carefully shaping them. Next, he will clean your mouth and take a digital impression of your teeth using the Trios 5 scanner. Dr. Gerald wil send these impressions to our dental lab for fabrication.
While they are creating your permanent bridge, we may place a temporary bridge or dental crown until your next appointment. After your permanent bridge arrives from the lab, Dr. Gerald will remove your temporary bridge or crown and place your permanent bridge. He will make sure that it fits perfectly and is comfortable before permanently attaching it.
At Dr. Gerald’s dental office, your comfort and safety are our highest priority. Placing a dental bridge in your mouth should be a virtually painless experience. While some swelling or discomfort may occur after the procedure, be sure to contact us if these symptoms do not resolve quickly.
Removable vs. Fixed Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is essentially a row of teeth fused together to make one dental prosthetic. There are several ways to secure a bridge. A removable dental bridge is not a permanent solution for your missing teeth. They are typically used as a temporary solution while the final fixed bridge is being created in a dental lab. This is because removable bridges do not help retain the bite.
Removable dental bridges may cost less than fixed options, but they do not come with long-term benefits. Alternatively, fixed dental bridges have more support in the form of natural teeth covered by crowns or dental implants.
A dental bridge that is supported by dental implants is the best treatment for patients missing several consecutive teeth. This method of replacing teeth does not involve harming remaining. Additionally, they create a stable foundation for the bridge because they restore the teeth at their root. Two or more implant fixtures are inserted into the jawbone during a surgical procedure.
It takes about three to six months for them to fuse with the bone. Then a custom-made dental bridge will be made to attach to them. The dental bridge will be very stable allowing you to eat a greater variety of food. Dr. Gerald collaborates with local oral surgeons and dental specialists for the surgical implantation portion of the treatment.
Dental Bridge FAQs
What happens if you get a cavity under a bridge?
If you have a dental bridge and develop a cavity underneath it, your only options are to get a new bridge or get a dental implant. Two new crowns can support your bridge if you opt for a dental implant to replace your missing tooth.
Can a bridge be removed and put back on?
When a bridge becomes loose, it can usually be removed, repaired, and then re-cemented back into place. With this in mind, it is important to remember that the cement used to bond a bridge in place is long-lasting and it is not always possible to remove a bridge without damaging the support of the teeth on either side of the gap.
How many teeth can you have on a dental bridge?
Bridges can replace anywhere from one to four missing teeth. Most people only end up needing to replace a single tooth or two. In some cases , if there are enough healthy teeth in the mouth to connect with dental crowns, a dental bridge can replace up to four teeth.
How long do dental bridges last?
A dental bridge can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on the patient’s diligence in caring for their teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene.
What is better: an implant or a bridge?
Since dental implants are more long-lasting than bridges, they can protect your teeth for the rest of your life. The implant’s titanium cylinder is extremely resistant to gum disease and tooth decay. Both are good options, however, implants are more secure and longer lasting.
Contact Our Dental Office Today
Do you want a fuller and more balanced smile? Book an appointment with Dr. Gerald today to see if a dental bridge is the right treatment for you. Call our Vienna office for restorative dental treatment today at (703) 721-4796 or you can schedule a dental consultation on our website. We look forward to seeing you on your next visit and helping you resolve your oral health needs.