BRIDGES

Bridges: An Effective Alternative to Dental Implants

If you’ve lost a tooth but cannot undergo a dental implant procedure—whether due to health concerns or other factors—a dental bridge is a good alternative to restore your smile.

What to Expect

A bridge replaces missing teeth using one or more crowns that “bridge” the gap between your remaining teeth. Often made of porcelain fused to metal, a dental bridge fits over the existing teeth on each side of the gap. Bridges address many of the same functional and aesthetic concerns as implants, making them a great option for certain patients.

Getting a bridge typically involves multiple visits to Gelinas Dental Studio for adjustments and fittings. During your final appointment, the bridge is permanently cemented in place. With proper care, it can last for many years.

Our Three-Appointment Process

1. First Appointment

  • Tooth Preparation: The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are numbed and carefully prepared for crowns. Special attention is given to ensure identical line angles, helping the dental ceramist design a bridge with an easy path of insertion.

  • Impressions & Temporaries: After shaping the teeth, we take impressions and fit you with a temporary bridge. You’ll wear this until your next visit, which is generally scheduled two weeks later.

2. Second Appointment

  • Framework Fitting: We’ll fit the metal framework of your bridge and may take an X-ray to confirm proper placement. If needed, a temporary luting acrylic is used to secure the framework.

  • Color Matching: We take photos and use a color guide to ensure the final porcelain teeth blend seamlessly with your smile.

3. Third Appointment

Final Bridge Placement: You’ll try on the completed bridge, and we’ll assess function, comfort, and aesthetics. Another X-ray helps confirm the fit. Once everything checks out, we permanently cement the bridge, remove any excess adhesive, and provide detailed instructions on cleaning and flossing beneath the bridge.

  • A patient with:

    • Existing Crowns: If both teeth on either side of the gap already have crowns.

    • Medical Concerns: Patients with complicated medical histories or who have difficulty healing after procedures.

    • Bone Defects: If there’s a bony defect that makes implants less feasible, a bridge can deliver better aesthetics and function.

    If you think a dental bridge might be the right solution for you, contact Gelinas Dental Studio to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from initial evaluation to final placement, ensuring a comfortable experience and a confident smile.