Dental Bridge Procedure and Aftercare Tips

When it comes to dental restorative treatments, dental bridges are among the ideal options to consider. Dental bridges replace missing teeth and restore your oral appearance and functionality. Even better, bridges are custom-made to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.

Other benefits of using dental bridges as restorative treatments include improved ability to chew and speak properly, restored facial structure, jawbone preservation, improved oral health, and much more. Furthermore, dental bridges prevent your teeth from shifting out of position.

To determine whether you’re a good candidate for bridges, you should visit your dentist for a dental check-up. The dentist will review your mouth and teeth and advise you accordingly. If you don’t qualify for dental bridges, you can consider alternative treatments such as dentures and dental implants.

Dental Bridges Procedure

Generally, getting a dental bridge involves multiple appointments. If you’re curious what a dental bridge procedure entails, here are typical steps used to fit in traditional bridges:

Before fitting the dental bridge, the dentist begins by reviewing your teeth and mouth to determine whether you’re eligible for the procedure. The dentist also takes x-rays of your mouth and creates a treatment plan.

On the second appointment:

• The dentist numbs the gum area around the missing tooth with a local anesthetic.
• Next, the dentist shaves down the healthy teeth, next to the missing tooth or teeth. Teeth trimming is necessary to make enough room for the crown to fit properly.
• The dentist then takes impressions of your mouth and teeth and sends them to the lab to prepare the bridge.
• In the meantime, a temporary crown or bridge is fitted to protect the trimmed teeth.

On the third appointment, the dentist removes the temporary crown or bridge and places the permanent bridge. Your dentist can consider other types of dental bridges, including cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and Implant-Supported Bridges.

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience minimal discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity. However, these effects will disappear in a few days. As far as recovery is concerned, you can return to your normal routine by the following day. Your dentist will provide explicit instructions on how to care for your bridge after treatment. Make sure you follow their instructions strictly for faster recovery and healing.

Although you should recover quite quickly, it may take some time for patients to get used to having the dental bridge in the mouth. Other patients may develop slight speech impediments in the next few days after the procedure. If you notice any side effects that don’t improve within a week, you should inform your dentist immediately.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Depending on the material used to make the bridge and the patient’s dental care routine, dental bridges can last for about 15 years. You can have your dentist check them regularly for wear or tear.

Dental Bridges Care Tips

Once the bridge is fitted, you can enjoy your new smile. However, to ensure that your smile is not short-lived, proper dental care and hygiene are necessary. To care for your bridge and mouth, use these tips:

• Take the prescribed medications as directed by your dentist to manage any discomfort and swelling.
• Brush and floss daily.
• Use an antibacterial rinse to prevent infections.
• Avoid eating hard, crunchy, and sticky foods until the discomfort and swelling diminish.
• Avoid hot, spicy, and cold foods and beverages to prevent sensitivity.
• Use an ice pack on the outside of the cheek to ease discomfort and swelling.
• Wear a mouthguard if you engage in sports and other physical activities.
• Wear a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth when sleeping.
• Eat healthier and hydrate well.
• Avoid sugary and acidic foods and beverages. They can encourage bacteria growth, increasing your risk of getting cavities under the crowns.
• Schedule routine dental check-ups and cleanings. At least two appointments per year.

Final Verdict

Dental bridges are indeed a worthy investment if you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth. They will improve your oral appearance and function, giving you a healthy, natural, and youthful smile. For dental bridge services, contact Concord Woods Dental Group to schedule a consultation today.