Dental Bridges An Overview
A dental bridge is a custom designed dental restoration used to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge can be used to replace a single missing tooth or to replace several consecutive missing teeth. With advancements in dental technology, dental bridges have improved in appearance and function affording patients with a more stable and natural result.
Ridgetop Dental designs high quality, ceramic dental bridges. Using state of the art digital diagnostics and 3-D smile design software, Dr. Datta and our dental care team are able to create natural looking dental bridges that will enhance the aesthetics of a patient’s smile.
A dental bridge can be made removable or secured using dental implants for a more stable and permanent option. For most patients, Dr. Datta will recommend securing a bridge with dental implants. Dental implants provide added support for the jaw and alignment of the teeth. A traditional bridge uses neighboring teeth as anchors. Implants eliminate the need to compromise otherwise healthy adjacent teeth for support.
Dental Bridges What to Expect
Receiving a dental bridge is a multi-step process that will result in a healthier, more beautiful smile. The dental bridge process begins with pre-treatment planning and a personalized oral health consultation. Dr. Datta will analyze your oral health and the viability of your bone to determine if you are a candidate for a dental implant supported bridge. Your Ridgetop Dental dentist will provide you with all of your treatment options and will take the time to explain the benefits of each choice.
The dental bridge can be anchored in place with support from adjacent teeth. Your dentist will remove substantial enamel from the teeth. Once the teeth are prepared, your dentist will take digital images of your teeth and begin the design process of creating your custom ceramic bridge.
If patients choose to anchor their bridge with dental implants, Dr. Datta will coordinate the implant surgery. Our Reston, VA dentist office handles all phases of the implant procedure in-house. Once the implants are placed and fully heal, a custom dental bridge will be fit and secured in place. Most patients will wear a temporary restoration while their implants heal, typically for 3-6 months.
