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Need a dental bridge in San Juan? At Durán & Martínez Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry, we are committed to helping our patients maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. In addition to providing thorough preventive care, we are proud to offer restorative dentistry options, including dental bridges, for patients who experience oral health conditions such as tooth loss or severe tooth decay. Read below to learn more about dental bridges, and contact the practice today at 844 208-0372 to schedule a consultation with the dentist Puerto Rico patients trust, Dr. Durán.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are synthetic tooth restorations that can be used to replace one or several missing teeth. At Durán & Martínez Cosmetic and Reconstructive Dentistry, we provide implant supported dental bridges as well as traditional dental bridges. These restorative dentistry treatments are a welcomed alternative for patients who are missing teeth but are not interested or are not good candidates for dental implants or dentures. Bridges can be made of several different types of materials, including porcelain, a porcelain-metal combination, gold or silver, based on the patient’s needs and preferences.
There are several types of dental bridges available
During a comprehensive consultation, Dr. Durán will evaluate the patient’s oral health condition and make recommendations for treatment. A traditional dental bridge consists of two dental crowns on either side of the missing tooth, and a false tooth in the middle. A cantilever bridge is placed if natural teeth only exist on one side of the affected area. In this case, the replacement tooth is attached to two crowns that are only on one side. Finally, an implant-supported bridge involves the placement of a dental implant in the jawbone. Once this is secured, dental crowns are fused together and are kept in place by the implant.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are ideal for patients who are missing one tooth or a few teeth. Patients who are missing most of the teeth in their mouth should consider dental implants or dentures, instead. Patients who have pre-existing oral health conditions such as gum disease should have those conditions treated prior to the placement of a dental bridge. This will reduce the risk of complications during or after treatment. During a thorough pre-treatment consultation, Dr. Durán evaluates each patient’s oral health to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. He will evaluate the structures of the mouth, discuss the patient’s specific needs and make recommendations for treatment. He will also explain the risks and benefits of the procedure and address any patient questions or concerns to ensure they feel cared for throughout every step of treatment.
The Procedure
Dental bridges can be placed at our Puerto Rico practice in two convenient office visits. During the first visit, Dr. Durán preps the surrounding teeth for crowns and takes several impressions of the area to be treated. These impressions are sent to a nearby dental lab where the crowns are created. Dr. Durán works closely with two of the finest dental labs in the states to ensure the very best results for their patients. Patients can return for their second and final appointment about at week after the restorations have been created. During this appointment, the dental crowns and bridge are sealed to the natural teeth using special cement.
Patients who receive dental bridges may experience minor discomfort in the hours after the procedure, which will subside on its own. It is important to practice good oral hygiene habits after the bridge is placed in order to maintain the health of the gums and natural teeth, as well as extend the life of the bridge. Dr. Durán also provides thorough post-procedure care, including a hygiene program, to help patients sustain their oral health. When cared for properly, dental bridges can last more than 15 years.
