Are you missing one or more consecutive missing teeth? Dental bridges can help restore your smile and oral health. A bridge can be supported by natural teeth or dental implants, acting like your real teeth. They can also be a good option instead of removable dentures, depending on how many teeth are missing and the strength of the teeth next to the gap.
At Integrated Dental, we can provide you with a custom dental bridge in Sarasota, FL. Our dental office works with each patient to find the right treatment for replacing missing teeth. We aim to provide the best option that meets your needs, looks good, and fits your budget. A dental bridge is a great choice for patients missing one or more teeth in a row.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dentists offer several types of dental bridges, each serving a different purpose. The one you need depends on how many teeth you need to replace, the condition of your nearby teeth, the quality of your jawbone, and your aesthetic goals. Keep reading to learn more about the types of dental bridges we offer.
Temporary Dental Bridge
A provisional or interim dental bridge is a temporary restoration that you wear until your permanent one is ready. This helps prevent teeth from shifting, protects exposed gums or teeth, improves chewing, and maintains aesthetics until the permanent bridge is ready.
A temporary bridge is not as durable as a permanent one and should be used with caution. They are meant for short-term use only. Please follow your dentist’s instructions on taking care of your temporary bridge.
Traditional Fixed Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is fixed in place by attaching it to healthy teeth next to the gap. It consists of dental crowns that attach to these teeth and pontics, which are the false teeth that replace the missing ones.
A dental bridge can consist of compounds like porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys. It’s more durable than a temporary bridge because it’s cemented in place. A bridge restores the function and appearance of your missing teeth, allowing you to chew better, speak more clearly, and smile with confidence again.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
An implant-supported dental bridge is a reliable option for replacing several missing teeth in a row. Instead of relying on healthy adjacent teeth for support, this type of bridge is secured to dental implants that have been surgically placed by a qualified specialist. Once the implants have healed and integrated with the bone, they provide a strong, stable foundation for the bridge.
Implant-supported bridges restore teeth at the root level and help preserve surrounding bone structure, eliminating the need to alter nearby natural teeth. With proper oral hygiene and routine dental care, these restorations can provide long-lasting, natural-looking results. Implant-supported bridges are designed to function and appear like natural teeth and are often indistinguishable from them.
Dental Bridge Treatment in Sarasota, FL
For traditional dental bridge treatment, we begin by preparing the teeth on either side of the gap and taking precise dental impressions. We also carefully match the color and shape of your natural teeth to ensure a seamless appearance.
These impressions and specifications are sent to a dental lab, where your custom bridge is fabricated to match the exact size, shape, and shade of your smile. Once the bridge is ready, we verify the fit and appearance before securing it in place.
For patients choosing an implant-supported bridge, the surgical placement of implants is completed by a specialist prior to the restorative phase. After the implants have healed and fully integrated with the jawbone—a process that can take several months—our team restores the custom bridge onto the implants. This approach helps improve stability and reduce the risk of bone loss over time.
In certain cases, a temporary or immediate bridge may be placed following tooth extraction. Because gum tissue can change during healing, a more permanent restoration is typically planned once the area has fully stabilized.
Patient Review
Dental Bridge FAQs
Do you have further questions about dental bridges? Continue reading to find answers to questions commonly asked in our office.
Why choose a dental implant or implant-supported bridge?
When replacing lost teeth, most patients are concerned about being able to bite, chew food, and speak with confidence. Dental implants can restore natural function and appearance. Secured into the jawbone, an implant provides normal bite function without worrying about a slipping appliance.
Am I a candidate for an implant bridge?
Most patients qualify for a dental implant or implant bridge. If there are concerns about gum health or the condition of the jawbone, there are solutions like bone grafting to create a stable foundation. Our doctors will recommend any necessary treatments to ensure a successful outcome with dental implants.
How long will my dental bridge last?
The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on how well you care for it. This means brushing and flossing daily, including properly cleaning under the bridge. You should also visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
These habits will keep your mouth healthy and ensure your bridge works well. With good care, your bridge can last up to 15 years.
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
Most dentists use a bridge to replace one or two teeth, but it can replace up to four teeth (sometimes more). However, the longer the bridge, the less stable it may be.
How do you eat with a dental bridge?
The most common type of dental bridge is a fixed bridge. It usually isn’t hard to eat when this restoration is in your mouth. A fixed bridge is secured with a strong bond, so it stays in place and lets you chew food without problems. The only food restrictions are for things that can harm the bridge, such as very hot drinks, foods or drinks that stain easily, and hard or sticky foods that can damage the bridge.
Will my dental insurance provide coverage for my dental bridge?
It depends on the extent of your coverage and your policy. Our patients’ dental insurance policies are vastly different. We suggest you contact your provider to see what they cover and how much each treatment they cover.
How do I take care of my dental bridge?
Taking care of a dental bridge is simple. You need to keep up with good oral habits and see our doctors regularly for checkups. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use mouthwash to keep the bridge and your teeth clean.
Flossing is also important. You should floss around and under the bridge every day to remove trapped food and debris.
Will people notice I have a dental bridge?
We will design your dental bridge to blend in with your natural teeth, making it hard to notice. Modern bridges match the color and shape of your real teeth. Today’s materials make dental restorations look more realistic, enhancing their natural look in your smile.
What should I do if my dental bridge breaks?
If you break your dental bridge, schedule an appointment as soon as you can. Keep all the broken pieces and avoid chewing on the side with the bridge to prevent more damage and discomfort.
Don’t try to fix it yourself! At your appointment, our dentists will check the damage. If they can’t repair it, they will start the process to replace your dental bridge. They also offer no-pressure second opinions.
Book an Appointment for a Dental Bridge in Sarasota, FL.
Our dental care team will examine your whole mouth and find the best solution for your oral health. Dental bridges are a great option for missing teeth. To see if you qualify, call us at 941-398-0609 or request an appointment on our website. We can provide you with a custom dental bridge in Sarasota, FL to restore and renew your smile.