Are you missing one or more teeth? Are you looking for a stable and secure restoration?
A dental bridge is a restorative dental option offered at North Meridian Dental Excellence. Our staff prides themselves on creating high-quality dental bridges in Indianapolis, IN. Dr. Ben Ahlbrecht works with patients to discover the correct solution to dental problems of all kinds. Learn more about the types of restorative dental bridge treatments our dentist in Indianapolis, IN offers below.
Types of Dental Bridges at North Meridian Dental Excellence
Dr. Ahlbrecht and his professional dental staff provide these dental bridges to patients in their Indianapolis office:
Cantilever Dental Bridge
Similar to a traditional bridge, we utilize a cantilever dental bridge when there is no support tooth available on one side of a missing tooth. To create this kind of bridge, your dentist will place two crowns next to each other with the pontic on the end. We can use just one crown and pontic for some types of cantilever bridges.
Resin Bonded Dental Bridge
Metal bands and dental bonding resin are used for this bridge. The bands and resin attach the pontic to adjacent teeth. In addition, the adjacent teeth will not require preparation as they do not receive dental crowns.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
A dental bridge supported by implants is best for patients that still have their bone tissue. For this treatment, we implant one or more titanium posts into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone. Dental crowns cap off the implants for a natural look.
Why Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges?
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge provides multiple benefits to patients. A dental bridge can:
- Restore the ability to bite and chew evenly
- Prevent teeth from shifting
- Help support any remaining tooth structure
- Maintain a patient’s face shape
If you do not fill the gaps left by multiple missing teeth, several problems may arise. Problems such as:
- Shifting teeth
- Bone loss
- Receding gums
- Facial sagging
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Misaligned bite
Have you noticed any of these problems? Call North Meridian Dental Excellence for immediate treatment. Dr. Ahlbrecht may need to perform periodontal treatment or offer crooked teeth solutions before restorative options can be considered.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How many years does a dental bridge last?
Bridges typically last between 5-15 years depending on the patient’s oral care, diet, and the placement of the bridge. Most bridges last about 10 years on average.
How long after extraction can I get the bridge?
After an extraction, the patient should wait at least a month to get a bridge. This allows for tissue and gums to heal. Some dentists may recommend waiting six months to get a bridge to be sure that gums have fully healed.
Is a dental bridge permanent?
Dental bridges are permanent tooth replacements. This is because we will cement them in place. You will not be able to remove them. Bridges not only correct missing teeth, but they can also restore the natural shape of your bite, smile, jaw structure, and face.
How long after the dental bridge can I eat?
We recommend that patients wait at least one hour to eat after getting a dental bridge. This gives any cement used in the procedure time to fully harden. Patients should avoid hard or sticky foods for a few days following the procedure until they have had ample time to adjust and chew with their new bridge.
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
Patients can eat normally once they have adjusted to their bridge. After we place the bridge, we recommend that you stick to a soft diet, and progressively adjust to chewing with your new bridge. Once patients feel comfortable, they begin to return to their regular diet.
Can food stick underneath a dental bridge?
Yes. Food can stick underneath your tooth bridge. There is space under the prosthetic tooth that food can get trapped beneath. This is why it is important to schedule regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist to be sure that your bridge is clean and healthy.
Contact North Meridian Dental Excellence’s office today for an evaluation. We will find the right solution for your missing teeth issues. Schedule an appointment or call 317.204.7134 today.