Bridges

​​If you chip, crack, or otherwise damage a permanent tooth, your dentist might recommend a crown to prevent further problems. Dental crowns are oral prosthetics designed to support and strengthen decaying or weak teeth. The team at Nova Dental Partners in Fairfax, Alexandria, and Woodbridge, Virginia, regularly uses crowns to preserve their patients’ teeth effectively and affordably. If you suspect you might need a crown, make an appointment by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are a type of oral prosthetic used to fill a space in your smile caused by a missing tooth. In addition to boosting your confidence and self-esteem, a dental bridge lowers your risk of more serious oral health problems like gum disease and bone loss. 

Are there different types of dental bridges?

The team at Nova Dental Partners offers four types of dental bridges:

Traditional dental bridges

A traditional dental bridge features two crowns and a false tooth, or pontic. Your dentist places the pontic in your missing tooth’s socket and bonds the crowns to your permanent teeth on either side of the gap using dental cement. 

Cantilever dental bridges

Cantilever dental bridges are similar to traditional dental bridges. The main difference is that a cantilever bridge only requires one permanent tooth for support. To hold your cantilever bridge in place, your dentist bonds a single crown to a healthy abutment tooth.

Maryland dental bridges

A Maryland dental bridge is another oral prosthetic that features a false tooth. However, instead of two crowns, it has a supportive framework of metal or porcelain. To hold a Maryland dental bridge in place, your dentist bonds the framework to the back of your permanent teeth. 

Implant-supported dental bridges

Implant-supported dental bridges rely on dental implants for support. If you’re missing more than one permanent tooth and you want a durable, long-lasting solution, an implant-supported dental bridge is worth considering. 

What type of bridge is right for me?

To determine the type of dental bridge you’ll most benefit from, make an appointment with the team at Nova Dental Partners. Following an oral examination and a discussion of your treatment goals, your dentist can make a recommendation that aligns with your budget and needs. 

How many appointments does it take to receive a dental bridge?

At Nova Dental Partners, receiving a dental bridge takes one appointment. First, your dentist performs an oral exam and administers a local anesthetic to numb your tooth roots and gums. 

Next, your dentist prepares your teeth on either side of the space in your smile to receive a dental crown. This involves your dentist removing a thin layer of enamel from each tooth. After preparing your tooth, your dentist uses putty to take a series of impressions. Your dentist uses your impressions to manufacture your bridge in-house. 

After milling your custom bridge, your dentist once again administers a local anesthetic. After the anesthesia sets in, your dentist lines up your bridge and bonds it in place with dental cement. 

Don’t let a missing tooth prevent you from living your best life. Request a dental bridge consultation at Nova Dental Partners by calling the office or requesting one online today.