Dental Bridges An Overview
If you have recently lost a tooth, you may want to start considering your options to have it replaced. Replacing a missing tooth does more than just improve the cosmetic appeal of the smile; it also helps to improve the overall health of the mouth. A missing tooth can affect your bite, and cause the neighboring teeth to drift into the open space left by a missing tooth.
As a result, you may suffer from bone loss over time. Our Annapolis, MD dentist office offers you a few options to replace your missing tooth. If you are only missing a single tooth, we offer a dental bridge and a dental implant to replace it.
Dental Implant vs A Dental Bridge
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is the traditional method used to replace a missing tooth. It is a restoration that works by “bridging” the gap between teeth. The bridgework is a series of prosthetic teeth linked together and supported by anchor teeth on either side of the gap. The anchors that are used for support on each side of the gap are you natural teeth, each strengthened by a dental crown.
The advantage to choosing a dental bridge is you will have your final restoration completed faster, usually about two weeks. It is also significantly cheaper than a dental implant. A disadvantage is the stress it places on the natural teeth. If adjacent teeth are in good health, the stress could lead to premature wear or cavity formation. They also require special care and maintenance.
Dental Implant
A dental implant is the most natural and durable option to replace a missing tooth. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw bone and serves as the artificial root for a dental crown. Because it is surgically placed, it is the most durable option for replacing a tooth.
You will have no diet restrictions! This also means you have a less chance of suffering from bone loss. Implants require the same care as your natural teeth so no extra steps need to be taken in your daily oral health routine. Even though this is the better option for replacing a tooth, there are a few drawbacks.
The initial cost of dental implants is significantly higher than a dental bridge. Also, the total time it takes to get the final restoration may take anywhere from 3 to 9 months. A dental implant supported by a dental crown to replace a single tooth will present the least number of problems in the future.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
An implant-supported dental bridge can be used to replace two or more consecutive missing teeth. It works by surgically placing two implants that will serve as the anchors. These have a higher success rate compared to traditional bridgework and they eliminate the need to degrade adjacent teeth.
Additionally, dental implants promote continued bone growth, preventing both bone shrinkage and gum recession associated with traditional bridges and dentures. An implant-supported bridge will look just like your natural teeth.
Dr Lee is the best dentist I have been encountered in the Annapolis vicinity. He has repaired my front teeth; it makes me want to smile more often. He is proficient and caring. Go to Dr Lee, you won't be sorry.David L., Annapolis
Dr. Albert Lee, and his staff are truly a professional group. From the time you are greeted by the front office staff to time with the hygienist, you are always made to feel special. They always care about you as a patient, and strive to make you comfortable. Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely are the gold standard in dental practices. I highly recommend them.Thomas W., Annapolis
Usually when people say, "I have to go to the dentist," it is said as if it were a fate worse than death...well, not for me. I LOVE going to the dentist...and so does my seven year old! Dr.'s Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely, & Associates is a great dental office. The office staff is friendly and helpful, the hygienists are highly knowledgeable and make the patients feel comfortable, and the dentists are personable and are truly interested in YOU as a person...not just a patient.Susan R., Annapolis
The office staff and environment has always been so welcoming and professional. From the time I walk into their very esthetically pleasing waiting room to their most up to date technology operatories, I have confidence that my dental experience will be a good one. I feel so comfortable in knowing everyone will strive their best to make my dental appointment pleasant. I recommend this office with 5 stars!!!Susan S., Annapolis
Love...love...love this practice! Never thought I could say I feel at home in a dental office, but I certainly do here. Everyone is so friendly and knowledgeable. They absolutely go out of their way to make you feel special. I always know I am getting the best possible treatment to meet my individual needs. Without a doubt, this practice is second to none. I highly recommend it to everyone!Karyn G., Annapolis
Dental Bridges What to Expect
If you need to have a tooth removed, our dentists can perform the tooth extraction in our Annapolis dental office.
The first step in the implant-supported bridge process is to have your dental implants surgically placed. After this, it will take about three to six months to heal from surgery and for the implants to fuse with your jawbone. Then, you will return to our office for a minor procedure where the abutments will be placed.
These will connect the implants to the dental bridge. A typical recovery time after this is about two weeks. Next, we will take impressions of your teeth and begin the fabrication of your custom dental bridge. At your last appointment, we will secure the bridge to the abutments and check to ensure a proper fit.
The first step to getting traditional bridgework will involve removing enamel from the two teeth that will be supporting it. This step is to prepare those two for dental crowns. We will then take impressions of your teeth that will be used to fabricate your custom bridge. When it is ready, we will then check for proper fit and it will be cemented in place.
