So you’re getting a dental bridge in Waterloo and you have tons of questions. This is quite normal, actually as most people have a lot of questions about dental procedures like bridges. A dental bridge is as the name implies, a bridge that bridges the gap created by missing teeth. A bridge can be made of two or more crowns on adjacent teeth and then false teeth that fit in between to fill in the gap. Perhaps the most looming question for anyone getting a dental bridge in Waterloo is if the procedure is going to be painful. The short answer is, no. At least not if you have a good dentist!
Why do I need a bridge to start with?
Perhaps you are hesitant or fearful of getting a bridge even though your dental professional has recommended it. Maybe you want to be certain that it is necessary before you agree to the procedure. There are some good reasons to restore gaps in the teeth. Here are just a few:
- For aesthetic purposes – it will restore your smile and help you maintain the natural shape of your face.
- To reduce pressure on other teeth
- To reduce the risks of developing jaw problems like TMJ later
- To prevent an abnormal bite
- To help with dental hygiene – it’s easier to keep your teeth clean and reduce the chance of tooth decay and gum disease
- For protecting you from speech difficulties
- To help you have normal chewing patterns
What is the procedure like?
Of course, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums to ensure a bridge is the best alternative for missing teeth. Then he will make casts of your arches. He will first numb the area, so that you will have a pain-free experience. Then, he will file down any teeth used for anchors so the space will accommodate the crowns and anchor necessary for holding the bridge in place. This typically takes about 45 minutes per tooth.
Once the teeth are ready, the dentist will make a mold of your dental arch using a special putty type material. This will be sent to the dental technicians who make your prosthetic device. It can take about two weeks to get it back from the lab. Until then, the dentist will fit you with a temporary bridge to hold the space until your permanent one arrives. Your mouth and gums will be numbed so that there is no pain involved in the process.
How long will a bridge last?
After you get your dental bridge in Waterloo you still need to take care of it just like your natural teeth. And just like your teeth, the longevity of the bridge will depend on how well it is cared for. As long as you follow a healthy diet, observe good daily oral hygiene habits and continue with regular dental checkups, a dental bridge should last about five years. In some cases, they will last much longer.
