Dental Bridges in Massapequa, NY
Dr. Jay B. Lubliner offers dental bridges in Massapequa, NY. Call us at 516-798-0223 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Missing one or more teeth is common for many people. The ADA reports that on average adult patients may have three missing or decayed teeth. Fortunately, there are a number of solutions to replace missing teeth, including dental bridges.
A bridge may be used to restore an area with one or more adjacent missing teeth. A bridge has two primary components. The abutments (or supports) for the bridge are created by placing a crown on either a natural tooth or an implant. The synthetic tooth that replaces the missing tooth is called a pontic.
In the case of one missing tooth, the two teeth on either side will be prepped for crowns and the missing tooth will be replaced with a synthetic tooth that is connected to the crowns on either side of the missing tooth. In the case of several adjacent missing teeth, one or more implants may provide the abutment.
There are four main types of dental bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
This is the most common type of dental bridge. The existing teeth are crowned with one or more pontics between and held in place by the crowned abutments. The crowns are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to the missing teeth to create a support structure or “bridge” for the missing teeth.
Cantilever Bridge
This type of bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, except that the structure is supported on only one side instead of both sides. This can cause the restoration to act as a “lever” and may create additional stress on the supporting tooth, causing it to be more likely to loosen or fracture.
Implant Supported Bridge
Instead of using existing teeth to support a bridge, a dental implant may be substituted to provide support for one or both sides of a dental bridge. This is a popular option that can provide a very secure restoration. This solution is particularly helpful when there are several adjacent missing teeth.
Maryland Bridge
This type of bridge is supported by a metal structure which is cemented onto the back of existing teeth. While not as strong as a traditional bridge, it can preserve the tooth structure of the adjacent teeth by avoiding the use of crowns for the abutments. It may not stay in place when heavy forces are placed on the restoration (such as biting and chewing) and does add pressure to the supporting teeth.
Contact our office to learn more about your restorative options and achieve the smile you have always wanted.
To schedule your appointment, call us today at 516-798-0223.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
How much are bridges?
The cost of a bridge varies. A bridge can range between $600 to $1500 depending on the materials and lab being used. With fixed (permanent) bridges the same holds true with regard to materials and labs being used. Also, the number of teeth involved in the bridge will affect the cost of the bridge. The more teeth involved, the greater the expense of the bridge.
How long after a tooth extraction can a bridge be fitted?
Typically it is recommended to wait at least 6-8 weeks after a tooth is extracted to impression and place a permanent fixed bridge. This is to allow the gum tissue enough time to heal. During the healing process, the gum and underlying bone change shape. If a bridge is placed too early in this process, you may end up with a space between the bridge and the gum.