Bridges & Implants

Dental bridges and implants are two excellent options to restore your smile and proper oral function after tooth loss.

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) that literally bridges the gap left by missing teeth. The artificial tooth is held in place by being attached to crowns placed over the adjacent teeth on either side of the space. Bridges can resolve minor to moderate tooth loss and prevent remaining teeth from shifting position.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Once the implant integrates with the bone (in a process called osseointegration), a crown is attached to create a natural-looking replacement tooth. Implants are an ideal solution for patients with good oral health who want a permanent, stable solution to regain full chewing ability. Both bridges and implants serve as functional and aesthetic tooth replacements.

Am I a Candidate for Bridges and Implants?

Dental bridges are typically recommended when the surrounding teeth have large fillings or existing crowns with healthy supporting tissue to support the bridge when there is sufficient space between remaining teeth. Dental implants are often preferred for a more permanent replacement when replacing a space between teeth or when preserving the existing natural teeth is not possible or ideal.

Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants:

• Healthy gums
• Lost teeth due to past periodontal disease, tooth decay, or trauma
• Looking for a permanent tooth replacement solution
• Committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
• Free from certain medical conditions or heavy smoking that could affect implant success

Ideal Candidates for Dental Bridges:

• Missing one or more teeth
• Healthy adjacent teeth with large fillings or crowns
• Good overall oral health
• No severe gum disease or conditions that could affect the success of the bridge
• Committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups

What to Expect

Before your treatment, your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the condition of the surrounding teeth and jawbone. They will evaluate the space left by the missing tooth, as well as your bite and the opposing teeth. Your dentist will discuss your goals, budget, and lifestyle to recommend whether a bridge or implant is more suitable. Factors like your oral hygiene habits, dental history, and any medical conditions are also considered. In some cases, bone grafting may first be needed before you can get implants. This consultation process helps determine the treatment plan that will be most successful and comfortable for your specific situation.

Getting Dental Bridges

To get a dental bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap will first need to be prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Next, impressions or digital scans are made to create the crowns and bridge piece in a dental lab. You'll be fitted with a temporary bridge to protect the area. Once the permanent bridge is ready, the old temporary is removed and the new bridge is cemented into place during your next visit.

Getting Dental Implants

Implants are often the preferred choice for many patients due to their durability, comfort, and natural appearance. The process involves placing a small titanium root in your jawbone. After your jawbone has fully bonded with the implant, a small connector piece is attached, allowing for the placement of your custom-made crown. This final step completes your new, natural-looking tooth, giving you a restored and beautiful smile.

After the Procedure

Recovery After Getting a Dental Bridge

The recovery process after getting a dental bridge is typically brief and straightforward. You may experience some sensitivity or tenderness around the teeth that were prepared for crowns, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It's important to chew carefully on the bridge at first until you get used to the new appliance. Your mouth may feel slightly bulky or crowded initially as well. Avoiding sticky or hard foods for the first few days can prevent dislodging or damaging the new bridge. With proper care and regular dental visits, dental bridges can last a long time.  

Recovery After Getting Dental Implants

Recovering from dental implant surgery is a longer process that occurs in stages. In the first 1-2 weeks after the implant is placed, you may experience swelling, bruising, minor bleeding, and discomfort that can be treated with cold packs, pain medication, and sticking to a soft diet. Over the next few months, you'll still have a gap or temporary restoration as the implant fuses with your jawbone. Once the permanent crown is attached, there is very little further recovery needed besides getting accustomed to chewing with the new tooth. Regular check-ups and excellent oral hygiene are essential for the long-term success of dental implants.