Restore Missing Teeth with a Porcelain Dental Bridge

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can negatively affect your appearance, as well as your eagerness to smile. However, the effects of even a single missing tooth are far from just aesthetic. Dental bridges can provide several treatment benefits:

• Help maintain an even distribution of pressure during chewing
• Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, loosening, and falling out
• Preserve the effects of past orthodontic treatment

In addition, implant-supported bridges can help maintain a dense, healthy jaw and stave off the bone degeneration that occurs after tooth loss. 

Traditional Dental Bridges

Dr. Kubit prefers all-porcelain restorations since the dental grade ceramic is virtually indistinguishable from your original teeth. 

Traditional dental bridges consist of one or more false teeth, suspended between two dental crowns. These crowns will be placed over the teeth adjacent to the gap in your smile. Most patients are considered good candidates for this type of bridge. Before the procedure, Dr. Kubit will listen to your concerns and goals, as well as answer any questions you have. 

To begin, Dr. Kubit will numb the treatment area using an advanced, computer-assisted anesthesia system. Although most patients find this step sufficient, we also offer oral conscious sedation. The supporting teeth will be gently reshaped in order to accommodate the crowns. Next, impressions will be taken and sent to our off-site laboratory. It will take between three to four weeks to receive your bridge. Dr. Kubit may place a temporary bridge before you leave the office. 

During your second visit to our office, Dr. Kubit will assess the appearance and fit of the custom bridge, and the crowns will be secured using a special dental cement. Your smile and bite will be fully functional and we will review any specific hygiene instructions with you at this time. 

Implants for Greater Security

Unlike a traditional bridge, an implant-supported bridge does not rely on healthy teeth for support. This is a noteworthy advantage since teeth become slightly weakened when their structure is altered. Instead, this type of bridge is attached to two titanium dental implant posts which are surgically placed in the jaw. Although this treatment option requires a greater investment and lengthier treatment timeline, it is the only option that can protect your oral and bone health. Dr. Kubit can refer you to a local oral surgeon for the initial procedure, then attach a custom bridge once you have fully healed, about four to six months later. 

Complete Your Smile Today

You deserve a healthy and attractive smile, as well as the highest quality care available. At Artistry in Dentistry, we accept financing through Erie Federal Credit Union to help patients afford the treatment they want and need. To learn more about what type of dental bridge is right for you, email our office or call (814) 825-7373.