Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a popular and effective appliance used to replace a missing tooth. Dental bridges are an industry staple thanks to the low-risk procedure and time-tested durability. Many of our patients have found dental bridges to be an excellent option. Dr. Rifkin may recommend a dental bridge as a part of your full mouth reconstruction.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap created by a missing tooth. Your surrounding teeth, also known as abutment teeth, are capped with dental crowns and serve as support structures for the prosthetic tooth. In other words, the dental crowns are linked together by the prosthetic tooth.
We also offer implant-supported bridges, which are ideal for patients missing multiple adjacent teeth. Implant-supported bridges are similar to traditional bridges; however, the pontic is supported by multiple dental implants, rather than abutment teeth. Usually, we place a dental implant for each missing tooth. Sometimes, this may not be possible, and the pontic is suspended between two implant-supported crowns. An implant-supported bridge can be the most secure, comfortable, and durable way to replace multiple teeth.
Dental Bridge Procedure
Like any restoration, it all starts with a consultation visit. Once we have determined you are a suitable candidate for a bridge, we can schedule your procedure.
For a traditional bridge, Dr. Rifkin will use a local anesthetic to numb the area, so we can reshape your abutment teeth without causing discomfort. Afterward, we will take an impression of the abutment teeth and send it to our dental laboratory. There, we will fabricate your final restoration using a ceramic compound, typically porcelain due to its superior esthetics.
For an implant bridge, Dr. Rifkin will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Next, we will place a series of implants. Once the implants are in place, we will suture the incisions.
Your final bridge may take a few weeks to complete. In the meantime, Dr. Rifkin may suggest a temporary to restore your ability to properly chew. Once your final bridge is ready, we will remove the temporary and check its margins. After we achieve the proper fit, Dr. Rifkin will permanently cement the bridge to your abutment teeth or implants, depending on your restoration.
Testimonials
People rated our Services
“Dr Rifkin has the hands of an angel. Never had any pain with his procedures. He is the Michelangelo of restorative dentistry. I’ve been going to him for forty years and will be going to him after he retires.”
“Dr. Rifkin is simply the best. Not everybody is lucky enough to become his patient. He is a caring Dentist first. Period. But he is also an artist with an eye for detail ... just a rare find. His smiles are so natural, so translucent and luminous you would never know that they aren't made by nature.”
“Great experience Dr. Rifkin and his staff are both pleasant and professional. It’s over a two hour drive for me but worth the trip for superior dentistry!”
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge has several benefits for your oral health, as well as your smile! For instance, dental bridges have:
- Great Aesthetics—Dental bridges not only fill the space of a missing tooth, but they can also improve the color and shape of the abutment teeth. Porcelain, the preferred restoration material, can be molded to mimic the texture and light reflecting properties of your natural teeth.
- Longevity—Case studies have shown that fixed dental bridges can last from five (5) to fifteen (15) years. With the proper care and maintenance, your bridge could even last for decades!
- Permanence—A fixed bridge is non-removable. This means that you will never have to worry about taking it out to clean it, unlike partial dentures.
If you lose a tooth, we cannot stress enough the importance of receiving a replacement. Over the years, Dr. Rifkin has seen may people receive preventable treatment because they did not act quick enough. When you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth may shift out of their proper position. This can lead to problems with your bite and your smile. A dental bridge can prevent this from happening. An implant-supported bridge can even prevent bone deterioration in the jaw.
To learn more about the restorative and cosmetic services we provide, click or call 310-596-7230 today!