It is important that a missing tooth be replaced as soon as possible for several reasons. When left untreated, the teeth surrounding the gap begin to shift inward, creating an unwanted chain reaction. Teeth use their neighbors for support, and, with one missing, they start to “fall.” As this worsens the bite changes in response to the pressure. This can eventually result in problems with the entire jaw, e.g. TMJ. The surrounding teeth deteriorate and it is just a matter of time before they, too, are lost. Gum disease becomes a serious problem, with the difficulty of treatment increasing as the neglect continues.
First off, we examine the current state of your oral health to make sure a bridge is your best option. Once it is determined you can have one, we move forward. We take impressions of your teeth in order to create the perfect fitting bridge. If you require crowns, those will be made in the dental lab as well. You will receive a temporary bridge that you need to wear in order to protect your teeth and gums and stop any further movement of your teeth.
On your second visit, we take out the temporary bridge and insert the new one. We do another check once the final bridge is placed in your mouth to make sure it does not need any more adjustments and fits properly. You will need to come in for checkups so that we can closely monitor the fit and comfort of your new dental bridge. Our dentists do excellent work, making these check-ups quick and painless for you.