Dental Bridges in Rockville, MD
Dental bridges are custom-fabricated dental restorations that replace missing teeth. They’re an effective restorative treatment for a single missing tooth and are most commonly used to replace consecutive missing teeth. A dental bridge is either secured to adjacent healthy teeth or can be anchored in place using dental implants for added oral health benefits.
Rockville dentist Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh encourages patients to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Missing teeth can jeopardize the integrity of the bite and the function of the jaw. Patients with missing teeth are more likely to develop additional oral health concerns. Dr. Sarkarzadeh uses the latest in dental technology and modern dental materials for natural-looking and comfortable results.
Our dentists recommend replacing missing teeth with implant-supported dental bridges. A fixed dental bridge, supported by dental implants, provides the most natural replacement for missing teeth. The success rate of implants is 35% higher than traditional bridgework. They also eliminate the need to degrade healthy teeth. Additionally, dental implants promote continued bone growth, preventing both bone shrinkage and gum recession associated with traditional bridges and dentures.
Dental Bridges: What to Expect
Treatment using dental bridges will vary depending on the personal needs and goals of the patient. Every patient will receive a personalized oral health exam and treatment plan to determine which style of dental bridge will best support their long-term oral health.
Traditional Dental Bridge
Dental bridges can be secured using adjacent teeth. Dr. Sarkarzadeh prepares the teeth by removing a substantial amount of the tooth structure to make room for the bridge. While this is the traditional method for securing a bridge, it does compromise the structure and health of the anchor teeth, and many patients will require further maintenance and care in the future.
Dr. Sarkarzadeh will take impressions of the prepared teeth. We send molds to a dental lab to create the final restoration. Patients will be provided with a temporary restoration while they wait for their final dental bridge.
Implant-Secured Dental Bridge
Dr. Ali Sarkarzadeh and Dr. Sina Peter Farzin work together to provide patients with comprehensive dental implant treatment options. Dental implants can successfully secure for improved oral health. Dental implants help to retain the structure of the jaw bone and prevent further deterioration or tooth loss. With routine dental hygiene and oral health exams, dental implants can last for many years without the need for further treatment or maintenance.
Dr. Farzin is a highly trained oral surgeon. He works from our Rockville, MD dentist office to provide patients with in-house dental implant treatments. Patients benefit from our full-service implants, enjoying a more streamlined experience without the need for visits to specialists.
Dr. Farzin will surgically implant at least two dental implants. After surgery, you will need about three to six months of healing time to allow the implant post to fuse with the surrounding bone. This creates a durable foundation for the bridge and replacement root structure. Once healed, you will return to have your custom bridge secured to your implants.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Does a dental bridge damage your teeth?
With a traditional bridge, we shave down the teeth to use as anchors for the prosthetic. Implant-secured bridges don’t damage or affect your natural teeth at all. Your bridge will not damage teeth while you are wearing the prosthetic.
How do you clean a dental bridge?
Clean a dental bridge the same way you clean your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, and use mouthwash to keep your bridge and teeth healthy. Flossing around and under the bridge will help keep cavities and infections away. You do not have to use special products to maintain your bridge.
What happens if you get a cavity under a bridge?
Although the attached crown protects anchor teeth, they are still vulnerable to infection. This is much more likely if the patient has widespread tooth decay, severe cavities, or serious gum disease. A tooth continues to decay under the dental bridge if you don’t completely remove the decay prior to the procedure.
What causes pain under a dental bridge?
You adjust to a new dental bridge in a couple of days. If your bite doesn’t feel right, the bridge is rubbing against your gums, or any other discomfort continues two weeks after treatment, visit your dentist for an adjustment and recommendations.