Dental Bridges

What is the process for getting a dental bridge?

Your dental professional will evaluate your teeth and bone structure and discuss the best treatment options tailored to your needs.

First, your dentist will numb the area, carefully open your gums, and place the implants into your jawbone. These implants need time to heal and fuse with the bone, typically three to six months. During the healing phase, a temporary bridge may be placed over the implants or supported by adjacent teeth to maintain aesthetics and function. Your dentist may place a small healing cap on top of the implants. This allows the gum tissue to heal properly without disruption.

Once healing is complete, your dentist will take impressions with specialized attachments called impression copings, which ensure an accurate fit for your permanent bridge. The dental lab will then use these impressions to craft a custom bridge to fit seamlessly with your existing teeth and match your bite.

Finally, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent one, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect, secure fit.

How long do dental bridges last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a dental bridge can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Longevity depends on the materials used, how well you care for your teeth and gums, and whether the surrounding teeth remain healthy. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to Bloom Dental will help extend the life of your dental bridge so you can enjoy a functional and beautiful smile for many years to come.

Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?

Yes! One of the main benefits of a dental bridge is that it restores your ability to chew and eat your favorite foods comfortably. Once your bridge is placed, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in your bite and chewing function. It’s normal to feel a bit of sensitivity at first, but this will quickly subside as you adjust. You should eat a soft food diet for about four weeks after surgery. You can start with a cool, pureed diet for the first day and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the implant. After a short recovery period, you can eat as you usually would. Maintain your regular cleaning routine to protect the bridge and supporting teeth.

What can I expect after getting a dental bridge?

It’s normal to experience light bleeding for up to 24 hours after surgery. Avoid spitting or rinsing too much, as this can cause more bleeding. Swelling usually occurs 24–48 hours after surgery. To reduce swelling, you can apply an ice pack to the outside of your face for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for at least 3 hours. You can take over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Ibuprofen to help with discomfort. For the first week, you can use a syringe or water pick to gently clean underneath the prosthesis. After two weeks, you can start using floss. You can also rinse your mouth with warm salt water a few times a day. 

Who is a good candidate for an implant-supported bridge?

If you have adjacent missing teeth and enough healthy jawbone to support implants, you may be a good candidate for an implant-supported bridge. Treating any decay or gum disease before starting the implant process is important. Additionally, patients should avoid smoking, as it can hinder healing and affect the success of the implants. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to staying in good health and ensuring the longevity of the bridge.