Dental Bridges
in NYC

Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is the most frequently utilized option. Your dentist will put crowns on the teeth to each side of the gap. These crowns will then hold the tooth or row of prosthetic teeth in place to fill in the gap.

Cantilever Bridge

The main difference between a cantilever bridge and a fixed bridge is that the cantilever bridge relies on just one crown to hold the artificial teeth in place. Although a cantilever bridge is slightly less secure than the standard option, it can be necessary when there are no other teeth in a row to attach a second crown to. You may also find it preferable if you would like to have fewer crowns in your mouth overall. 

Maryland Bridge

Rather than relying on crowns, a Maryland bridge uses a porcelain framework that is secured to the back of the adjacent natural teeth to hold the artificial teeth in place. This approach is only appropriate when there are teeth available on both sides. 

Implant-Supported Bridge

The final type of bridge uses dental implants instead of crowns to hold a bridge in place. Although this approach will take longer to complete than the previous three, the bridge will allow you to replace several missing teeth without needing an implant in each vacant space. 

Dental Bridge Fitting and Attachment

If the type of bridge you and your dentist have agreed upon requires crowns, he will downsize the relevant teeth so they can receive the crowns. Your dentist will then need to take either a mold or computer image of your mouth to create the bridge. After a couple weeks, a laboratory sends the completed bridge to New York Smile Institute At your next appointment, your dentist permanently secures the new bridge to your mouth. 

Dental Bridge Advantages

Missing teeth can cause many problems. Eating is far more challenging without all of your teeth. Many people with missing teeth change the way they chew to compensate for the gaps, which can cause long-term jaw pain. With a bridge, you will be able to resume eating in a normal manner. Speaking is also more difficult when you have missing teeth. Slurring or speech impediments you have developed since losing your teeth should be corrected with a dental bridge.

Dental bridges also help to keep your natural teeth in line. When there is an empty space in your gums, your existing teeth can start to drift out of place, which can change the alignment of your smile. A dental bridge ensures that movement does not occur and that your teeth remain straight.

Of course, dental bridges are also beloved by patients for their aesthetic value. The artificial teeth on a dental bridge are made to look like your other teeth (mimicking their size, shape and color) so your friends and colleagues should not be able to recognize them as prosthetics. Filling in the empty space will also prevent the “sunken” facial appearance that happens to many patients with missing teeth.

Am I a Candidate for a Dental Bridge? 

To qualify for a dental bridge, you must have one or more permanent teeth missing or severely damaged teeth that require extraction. A bridge replaces two or more teeth in a row, so your lost or injured teeth must be in a consecutive line. It’s common to have multiple missing teeth in one area of the upper or lower arch because losing one tooth jeopardizes the surrounding teeth. The adjacent teeth on either side shift to fill the gap, making them more vulnerable to falling out. 

You must have good oral and overall health to ensure the bridge is successful. Our dentists must first address teeth, gum, and jaw problems to ensure your mouth can support the bridge. Some patients may need a bone graft procedure to build up the jawbone before getting a dental bridge. 

What Is the Recovery Time for Dental Bridges? 

Recovery varies from patient to patient, but it can take one or two weeks for your gums and teeth to heal. It may take longer for you to get used to the feel of your dental bridge and learn how to clean the prosthetic properly. For a few weeks, you may have inflammation, soreness, or sensitivity in the treated area.

How Long Will My Dental Bridge Last? 

Dental bridge longevity relies on good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. A well-cared-for dental bridge may last 15 years or longer. However, a dental bridge will need to be replaced when the prosthesis shows signs of wear and tear or is damaged.

To make your dental bridge and natural teeth last, brush and floss daily with a non-abrasive fluoridated toothpaste and clean under the bridge with special floss threaders and interproximal brushes that fit between the artificial teeth (dental crowns). Avoid extremely hard or chewy foods to prevent chipping or breaking the crowns on the bridge. Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packaging, and avoid chewing on ice, pens, or fingernails to prevent bridge damage.

Interested in a Dental Bridge?

If you have any missing teeth, the elite dentists at New York Smile Institute are happy to help you recomplete your smile. After examining your mouth, they will offer their professional opinion on the best way to restore your mouth, which very well may be one of the four types of dental bridges. For an appointment, please call (212) 319-6363.