Bridge the Gap to a Healthy Smile at Dr. K Dental
Missing a tooth can impact your smile, confidence, and even your oral health. At Dr. K Dental, we offer dental bridges as a reliable solution to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile.
Think of bridges as tiny dental bridges, literally bridging the gap between missing teeth. They are anchored to your healthy surrounding teeth and hold a false tooth (pontic) in place, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with ease. Bridges also help prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, maintaining proper bite alignment and preventing future problems.
Whether you're a Brooklynite or a Manhattan resident, Dr. K Dental is conveniently located to serve your dental needs. We understand that dental visits can sometimes cause anxiety, but our friendly team is here to ensure a smooth experience. We offer various relaxation options to keep those pre-appointment jitters at bay.
What to Expect During Your Dental Bridge Procedure
1
Consultation & Planning
You'll meet with one of our experienced dentists, Dr. Marina Kuznetsov, Dr. Dmitriy Kuznetsov, or Dr. Sergey Kuznetsov, to discuss your concerns and goals for your smile. They'll carefully examine your teeth and gums to determine if a dental bridge is the right solution for you.
You’ll have some digital x-rays taken to get a clear picture of your jawbone and remaining teeth.
Dr. Kuznetsov will discuss the best type of bridge for your needs and create a personalized treatment plan. This will include the number of appointments needed, the materials used, and an estimate of the cost.
2
Prep / Temporary Bridge
The teeth on either side of the gap will be slightly shaved down to make room for the dental crowns that will anchor the bridge. An anesthetic will be used to ensure your comfort during this procedure.
In some cases, a temporary bridge may be placed while your permanent bridge is being fabricated in the dental lab. This will help maintain your smile and chewing function during the interim period.
3
Permanent Bridge
A Dr. K Dental dentist will carefully place the permanent bridge and ensure it fits comfortably and securely. Any minor adjustments will be made at this time.
We’ll provide detailed instructions on how to care for your dental bridge, including proper brushing and flossing techniques. Regular dental cleanings are also essential to maintain good oral health and the longevity of your bridge.
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Dental bridges are fixed dental restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth attached to crowns placed on the surrounding healthy teeth. Bridges help restore your smile, improve chewing function, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and maintain proper facial structure.
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There are several types of dental bridges, each with its own advantages. The most common types include:
Traditional bridges: These are the most common type, using crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap.
Cantilever bridges: These are used when there are teeth only on one side of the gap.
Maryland bridges: These use metal wings bonded to the backside of the surrounding teeth instead of crowns.
Dr. Kuznetsov will discuss the best type of bridge for your specific needs and situation during a consultation.
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The dental bridge procedure typically involves two appointments:
First appointment: Preparation - Dr. Kuznetsov will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the crowns. They will then take impressions of your teeth and create a temporary bridge for you to wear while the permanent bridge is being fabricated.
Second appointment: Placement - Dr. Kuznetsov will remove the temporary bridge and carefully place and cement the permanent bridge onto the prepared teeth.
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With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, often exceeding 10 years. Brushing and flossing regularly and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential for the longevity of your bridge.
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Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and attend regular dental checkups and cleanings. Dr. Kuznetsov may also recommend special cleaning tools to reach underneath the bridge and maintain optimal hygiene.
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Dental bridges are a fixed restoration, offering more stability and a more natural feel compared to dentures. They also improve chewing function and help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
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Dental bridges require preparing healthy teeth to support the crowns. Unlike dental implants, bridges don't address bone loss in the jaw. Additionally, maintaining proper hygiene under the bridge can be more challenging.
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f you have one or more missing teeth and healthy teeth on either side of the gap, you may be a good candidate for a dental bridge. Dr. Kuznetsov will perform a thorough examination and discuss your suitability for bridges during a consultation.
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The cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the type of bridge used, and other factors. We recommend contacting our office for a personalized quote. We accept most major dental insurance plans and can help you navigate your coverage.
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While uncommon, dental bridges can break. If this happens, contact Dr. K. Dental immediately. Depending on the severity of the break, the bridge may be repairable, or a new bridge may be needed.