Dental Bridges

Serving Kansas City, Overland Park and Shawnee

If you are missing one or more teeth, then you may be a good candidate for a dental bridge. While missing teeth are certainly a cosmetic concern, they also have a domino effect on the rest of your dental health. Just one missing tooth will eventually cause your other teeth to shift, and lead to jawbone deterioration, further tooth loss, speech problems, and chewing problems. If you have recently lost a tooth, you should seek treatment immediately.

What is a dental bridge?

A typical dental bridge consists of a false tooth set between two dental crowns. These crowns are bonded to the healthy teeth on each side of the empty space. This type of bridge is the sturdiest, though there are other variations. A resin-bonded bridge can often be used on front teeth. This is simply a false tooth attached to the adjacent teeth with a metal band. Half bridges may be used when there is only one adjacent tooth available. A dental implant may also be necessary if several consecutive teeth are missing. This implant would serve as a support for one or more sets of bridges.

The procedure

In most cases, installing a dental bridge requires that two crown procedures be performed – one on each of the adjacent healthy teeth. For more information about the crown procedure, please visit our dental crowns page.

Expect at least three dental visits to complete the dental bridge process. During your initial consultation, you will discuss the procedure, your goals and expectations, and any alternative treatments that may apply. Your second visit will involve tooth preparation and mold taking. You will then be given a temporary bridge while you wait for your permanent bridge to be manufactured. This typically takes two to three weeks.

During your third visit, your permanent bridge will be placed and any final adjustments made. With proper care and good judgment, you can expect your dental bridge to last many years.

Time is of the essence when it comes to treating missing teeth. If you live in the Kansas City, Kansas area and have one or more missing teeth, dental bridges may be the right option for you. Please contact Dr. Castaneda today to arrange a consultation.

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