Porcelain Bridges
Bridging the Gaps
Whenever you drive across a bridge, you’re being supported by the same principles that support a dental bridge. Crowned teeth on either side of a space are called abutments. They support an artificial tooth, called a pontic. While a bridge lasts for many years, sometimes the strain of supporting one or more missing teeth can cause the abutments themselves to weaken and may lead to more missing teeth.
A Better Bridge
In many cases, dental implants offer a better alternative, eliminating most of the load-bearing strain you see in traditional bridge abutments. When carefully placed in the bone, an implant mimics the root of a tooth. They bear the load that the natural teeth used to hold, sparing the neighboring teeth from excessive forces. In some cases, two implants may be used to build a bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this procedure safe?
The technology for this procedure continues to advance and had made it extremely safe. This is considered not only safe but one of the most reliable ways to replace a tooth.
How long will the tooth replacement process take?
This process will likely happen with 2 phases. This will be spread out over a three to nine-month period. It could take longer if you start with an extraction that needs to heal. In some cases, you may even need bone grafts.
Is this tooth replacement method painful?
This option is actually relatively painless. During the process, the dentist will give you an anesthetic. This will make sure you don’t feel any pain. After it’s done you’ll be prescribed antibiotics and possibly some pain medication. You’ll most likely only deal with minimal discomfort.
What foods can you eat after the surgery?
After your surgery, for the next 2 days, you’ll need to eat soft foods and liquids only. Things like milkshakes, yogurt, smooth soups, and mashed potatoes. On your 3rd day of healing, you can then begin eating foods that require minimal chewing. For example, cooked noodles, macaroni and cheese, and soft sandwiches. During these days avoid crunch or tough foods like rice, pizza, and popcorn. Also, stay away from spicy foods and anything acidic. After about 7 days of your dental implant surgery, you can go back to your regular diet.