Dental Bridges
Eat Comfortably Again
Restore Your Smile With Dental Bridges in Rochester
Your smile will look and feel complete again with restorative treatment designed to fill gaps left by missing teeth. Dr. Ruchlin fits dental bridges in Rochester that anchor to nearby teeth, giving you back a full bite. Made to match your natural teeth, a bridge blends in and fits securely so you can chew and speak normally again.
Custom bridges eliminate gaps in your smile, giving your appearance a complete look. They also stop nearby teeth from drifting into the empty space, so your bite stays aligned. Because bridges restore normal chewing, you can enjoy your favorite foods again. They also help keep your speech clear, since gaps can affect how words form.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
Q What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It uses a false tooth, called a pontic, anchored to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. Unlike a removable denture, a bridge is cemented in place and isn't taken out for cleaning.
Q When might a dental bridge be needed?
A dental bridge might be needed when one or more teeth are missing and the neighboring teeth are healthy enough to hold crowns. It's often recommended soon after a tooth is lost, since waiting can let nearby teeth shift out of position.
Q What is the process for getting a dental bridge?
Getting a dental bridge takes two visits. At the first, the teeth next to the gap are shaped to hold crowns, and a mold or digital scan captures the fit. A temporary bridge protects the area while the custom bridge is made in a lab. At the second visit, the finished bridge is cemented in place.
Q What are dental bridges made from?
Q Does getting a dental bridge hurt?
Getting a dental bridge is usually not painful, since a local anesthetic numbs the teeth being shaped for crowns. Some mild soreness or sensitivity to hot and cold is common for a few days afterward. Over-the-counter pain relief typically eases any discomfort during this short recovery period, and most people return to normal eating quickly.
Q What is the difference between a dental bridge and a partial denture?
A dental bridge is fixed in place and isn't removed, while a partial denture is a removable appliance that clips onto the remaining teeth. Bridges tend to feel more like natural teeth since they're cemented in place, while dentures can be taken out for cleaning each night. Bridges also don't rely on clasps for retention.
Q Can a dental bridge be anchored by a dental implant?
A dental bridge can be anchored by a dental implant instead of natural teeth on either side of the gap. This design, called an implant-supported bridge, works well when the surrounding teeth are healthy and shouldn't be altered to hold crowns. It also helps preserve the jawbone near the missing tooth.
Q How long do dental bridges typically last?
A dental bridge typically lasts at least five to seven years, though many last longer with good care. How long it lasts depends on the materials used and how well a person brushes and flosses around it. Regular dental visits help catch small problems, like a loose crown, before they affect the whole bridge.