Decatur, AL Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to fill a gap when you are missing a tooth. Typically the abutting teeth will have crowns placed and a false tooth will be suspended between them in the open space.
Zirconia Bridges
At Drake & Wallace Dentistry, we like the new, high-tech, high-strength ceramics such as zirconia for bridgework. Zirconia (zirconium oxide) is a ceramic that is so strong it has earned the nickname “ceramic steel.” It is metal-free, which eases concerns of many patients who have metal allergies or metal sensitivities. Another benefit of a metal-free zirconia bridge is that it allows Drs. Drake and Wallace to create translucent teeth that match your other teeth and provide you with a natural, aesthetically-pleasing smile.
Steps for a Zirconia Bridge
The steps used for a zirconia bridge are the same as for other types of bridges. After an examination, we will discuss with you the options for replacing missing teeth. We’ll answer all your questions so that you can make an intelligent decision about having either a dental implant or a bridge.
If you elect to have a bridge, two appointments will be required. In the first appointment, the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth will be prepared for crowns, similar to what you see in the illustration. Then an impression will be taken of the prepared teeth and your opposing arch so that the dental laboratory can re-create your case on models. We will then create a temporary bridge for you to wear until the permanent one is ready for you.
After we receive your case back from the lab, you will come in for your second appointment, during which we will check the fit of your new bridge, make any necessary adjustments, and permanently cement it.
Reasons to Choose a Dental Bridge
Many people will choose a dental implant over a bridge to replace a missing tooth. But if the teeth on either side of the missing tooth need crowns anyway, a dental bridge may be the more sensible choice. It will certainly be a lot less expensive. Also, some clinical conditions may not be conducive to placing an implant, such as inadequate bone present. And placing an implant requires an extended healing time of several months, where a bridge can be placed right away. We’ll explain how all of this relates to your situation and allow you to make an informed decision.
If you have a missing tooth and would like it replaced, we’d love to help you. You can visit our request an appointment page, or just call.