Dentures and Dental Bridges

Dentures Ligonier

What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a cosmetic dentistry restoration used to replace a missing tooth. Essentially, a bridge consists of a false tooth (pontic) that is fused between two porcelain crowns (also called “caps”). The crowns sit on either side of the false tooth, providing added strength and support.

Why should a dental bridge be considered to replace missing teeth?
Leaving gaps in your smile has a negative effect on its appearance, but it can also cause dental health problems. These missing spaces can leave you susceptible to fast-acting decay and gum disease. It can also cause remaining teeth to shift out of their natural position, causing a bite imbalance. Dental bridges can restore a healthy, balanced bite, improve speech and chewing, and help you complete your smile.

Will a dental bridge last very long?
If you are committed to great home care and regular checkups, your dental bridges could last ten years or more.

Am I a good candidate for a dental bridge?
Patients who have one or more missing teeth, with healthy neighboring teeth, may be good candidates for dental bridges.

What happens during a dental bridge procedure?
In just two appointments, you could be enjoying a gap-free smile. During your first dental bridge visit, Dr. Maria Cavalier will prepare the area around the missing tooth. Next, an impression is taken of the area and sent in to our lab, where your new bridge (including pontic and crowns) is designed. A temporary bridge is placed before the end of your appointment to protect the area. During your second visit (about two weeks later), the temporary bridge is removed and the new one placed. After a fitting check, adjustments are made and the bridge is permanently cemented.

During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare your teeth for the bridge. A mild anesthetic is applied to your mouth, and your dentist will clear an area surrounding the teeth on each side of the space, to accommodate for the thickness of the pontic. Note: If these particular teeth have fillings, parts of the fillings may be left in place, to help as a foundation for the bridge.

How much do dental bridges cost?
The cost of your bridge restoration will vary depending on your unique needs. During your initial consultation, Dr. Cavalier will evaluate your situation and make a recommendation for treatment. You’ll also have the opportunity to sit down with our financial coordinator to discuss the fees and learn about our financing options at this time.

If you live in Greensburg, Murrysville, Pittsburgh, or North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, you’ve got a trusted cosmetic dentist right around the corner. For more information on dental bridges and other smile makeover procedures, please contact Dr. Cavalier today to schedule your first smile makeover visit.

Greensburg Cosmetic Dentist

724.219.0812

438 Pellis Road, Suite 100
Greensburg, PA 15601

Welcome to the CLIENT website, please upgrade your Flash Plugin and enable JavaScript.