Dental Bridges
When damage or decay to a tooth is severe, WDA will create a crown – most often from porcelain – to strengthen it or improve its appearance, restoring your problem tooth to its natural shape and size.
Crowns are commonly used to "cover" or restore damaged and misshaped teeth as well as protect weaker teeth from breaking or becoming further damaged.
What you should know about Dental Bridges
Bridges require at least two appointments. During the first appointment:
- We numb your tooth before any work is begun.
- Areas are cleaned thoroughly and any decay removed.
- Enamel from the two “anchor” teeth is removed to allow for a crown.
- An impression (or “mold”) is made to create your custom bridge.
- A temporary bridge is then created from the impression and installed with temporary cement.
- You will wear this temporary bridge while a dental laboratory creates your actual crown (approximately two to three weeks).
During the second appointment:
- The temporary bridge is removed.
- The area is thoroughly cleaned again.
- The permanent bridge is fitted onto your teeth.
- In some situations, the permanent bridge is first installed with temporary cement to allow surrounding teeth and tissue to adapt to the bridge, before it is permanently affixed at a later appointment.
Our staff will provide you with complete instructions on how to properly care for your new bridge, including proper oral hygiene practices and appropriate eating habits.
Dental bridges are used to
- Fill space of missing teeth
- Restore ability to chew and speak properly
- Maintain facial shape
- Maintain proper alignment of teeth
- Restore your smile
Read more about dental bridges at the American Dental Association's website.
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