Dental Bridge Procedure: What to Expect

If you have one or more missing teeth, healthy gums, and sufficient bone structure, a dental bridge might be right for you. This option is particularly advantageous for patients who prefer a non-removable solution over dentures and are looking for a more affordable alternative to dental implants. Our experienced dental professionals at Four Corners Dental Group will conduct a thorough examination of your oral health to ensure your gums and surrounding teeth can support a dental bridge.

We emphasize the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing and scheduling routine dental check-ups with us. These habits are crucial for the long-term success of your dental bridge. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate treatment based on your unique dental health needs and lifestyle.

If you’re free from periodontal disease and committed to maintaining your oral health, we invite you to consult with our team at Four Corners Dental Group. We’ll work with you to explore your options and help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.

First, our skilled dentists conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, focusing on the condition of your surrounding teeth and gums. This assessment is crucial to determining their suitability as support for your new dental bridge. Next, we carefully prepare the abutment teeth, which involves reshaping them by removing a portion of the enamel. This step ensures that the crowns anchoring your bridge fit perfectly.

Using state-of-the-art technology, we take precise impressions of your teeth. At Four Corners Dental Group, we may employ advanced digital scanning to create a detailed 3D model, enhancing the accuracy of your custom dental bridge. We also meticulously match the shade of your bridge to your natural teeth, guaranteeing a seamless blend with your smile.

To protect your exposed teeth and gums while your permanent bridge is crafted in our trusted dental laboratory, a temporary bridge will be placed. This temporary solution not only maintains the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth but also allows you to continue your daily activities without interruption. Our team will provide you with comprehensive instructions on caring for your temporary bridge, including dietary tips and oral hygiene practices, to ensure your comfort and minimize any potential risks.

We believe in transparent communication, so throughout your appointment, our dentists will thoroughly explain each step of the process and address any questions or concerns you may have. This open dialogue helps you understand the procedure and sets clear expectations for the final results.

Once your custom permanent dental bridge is ready, you’ll return to our office for a second appointment. During this visit, we’ll remove the temporary bridge and securely fit the permanent one, making any necessary adjustments for comfort and optimal bite alignment. At Four Corners Dental Group, we’re committed to delivering positive experiences through our services.

You may be confident that we will utilize the most up-to-date methods and anesthetics to reduce your discomfort when you visit Four Corners Dental Group for a dental bridge. The abutment teeth will be meticulously reshaped by our talented dentists to make room for the crowns supporting the bridge. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the treatment area, so you will not experience pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration, but this is normal and should not cause discomfort.

We make a model for your unique dental bridge by taking exact impressions of your teeth after they are ready. Usually, this process is painless. Our dentists will fit and adjust your permanent bridge when it’s ready to guarantee a comfortable fit and proper bite alignment. While some patients might experience slight discomfort as they adjust to the new dental structure, this is usually temporary.

After your procedure, it’s common to experience mild soreness or sensitivity, which should subside within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective in managing any initial discomfort. If you experience prolonged or severe pain, please contact us immediately, as this could indicate a complication that needs attention.

We understand that each patient’s experience is unique, and we’re here to address any concerns you may have. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care and guidance to ensure you feel comfortable and have a better understanding of dental bridge procedures.

Choose the Right Tools: We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your natural teeth and dental bridge. Pair this with a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the bridge material.

Thorough Brushing Technique: Focus on brushing all surfaces of your teeth and the bridge, particularly around the area where the bridge meets your gums. This helps in removing plaque and food particles that can lead to decay or gum disease.

Clean Under the Bridge: It’s crucial to clean underneath the bridge, as this area is prone to bacteria buildup. Use a floss threader to guide dental floss under the bridge, or consider a water flosser to effectively flush out debris from hard-to-reach areas.

Antibacterial Mouthwash: Incorporating an antibacterial mouthwash can further help reduce the risk of gum disease by targeting bacteria that brushing and flossing might miss.

Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular visits with us at Four Corners Dental Group. Our dental professionals will perform a thorough cleaning of your dental bridge and check its fit to prevent potential complications.
By following these steps and keeping up with your routine dental appointments, you can ensure that your dental bridge remains in excellent condition and your oral health stays optimal. If you have any questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to Four Corners Dental Group—we’re here to help you smile confidently.

Regain both the function and beauty of your smile with a custom dental bridge at Four Corners Dental Group. Dr. Pete Higgins, DDS, and our expert team are committed to providing precise and effective care for a seamless treatment experience. If you’re missing teeth and seeking a reliable solution, our dental bridge procedure offers a durable, natural-looking restoration. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3901 Raspberry Rd, Anchorage, AK 99502. We serve patients from Anchorage AK, Eagle River AK, Campbell AK, South Anchorage AK, Chugiak AK, Spenard AK, and surrounding areas.