Fixed Dental Bridges, Many people suffer from dental problems that can lead to tooth loss if neglected, causing further problems. Therefore, doctors always recommend replacing them through various medical procedures such as dental bridges. In this article, we will discuss bridges as one of the most important restorative treatments, their advantages, and the most important centers that install them.
Fixed Dental Bridges
Fixed Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are one of the most important therapeutic methods that many doctors rely on in cases of tooth loss. They consist of a technique of connecting the natural tooth to the artificial tooth, so it is necessary to ensure that there are no problems that may hinder the installation of the bridge. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the types of bridges and how to install them.
What is a Fixed Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges: are one of the therapeutic methods used to replace missing or damaged teeth. They consist of a set of molds in the shape of a tooth or molar made of materials similar to natural teeth such as porcelain, which are attached in a specific way to the adjacent teeth, so they must be healthy, as well as the gums.
“At the Medical Center for Dental Care, we take care of your teeth to make them healthier and brighter using the latest devices and techniques.”
Dental Bridges
|
Dental Implants
|
Crowns
|
- Bridges are used to replace damaged or missing teeth with another tooth by placing a bridge and attaching it to the adjacent teeth.
- Bridges can last for a long time, up to 10 years, but they must be replaced after that period.
|
- Implants are used to replace damaged or missing teeth with another tooth by implanting and fixing it with implants that fuse with the jaw bones, making it difficult to remove.
- Dental implants can last between 15 to 25 years and may last longer with proper care.
|
- Crowns are only used in case of damaged or broken teeth to replace the tooth instead of extracting it. Crowns are also used in the installation of bridges and dental implants.
- Crowns can last between 5 to 15 years if the patient takes care of them properly.
|
Types of Dental Bridges
There are different types of dental bridges that differ in construction. Here are some of them:
- Traditional Dental Bridge: This is the most commonly used type, where the doctor creates a set of molds in the shape of a tooth, then fixes it in the area of the missing tooth and secures it firmly to the adjacent teeth to support the artificial tooth.
- Maryland Bridge: Posterior wings are placed on the artificial teeth, and the bridge is secured by attaching the wings behind the adjacent teeth.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge: This is one type of bridges where the artificial tooth is installed and secured next to the closest tooth to the bridge. This type is used in cases where the missing tooth is at the end, and there is only one adjacent natural tooth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: This is one of the most durable and stable bridges, where the bridge is secured with implants instead of crowns. Each bridge is implanted with an implant.
Types of Dental Bridges
Cases That Require a Fixed Bridge
Dental bridges are one of the most important modern treatments for replacing missing teeth. There are many cases that require the installation of fixed bridges, including:
- It helps patients regain their ability to chew and grind food, making digestion easier.
- Improving the appearance of teeth and the shape of the jaws, as it helps regulate the spaces between teeth.
- It helps in pronouncing speech correctly and producing sounds of letters properly.
- Increasing the patient’s confidence when smiling and starting to speak.
During the session, the doctor goes through several steps to install the fixed bridge. Here are the most important steps:
- In the first session, the doctor diagnoses the patient’s teeth and determines the problem and the appropriate treatment. They may take measurements and dimensions of the teeth to prepare the bridges in the laboratory.
- The doctor asks the patient to undergo some general and dental-specific tests, such as panoramic X-rays and dental X-rays, to ensure there are no problems. If any problems are found, they must be treated before installation, such as tooth decay or gum inflammation.
- In the second session, the doctor prepares the mouth by thoroughly cleaning the teeth and removing tartar and bacteria. Then, they shave a layer of enamel from the adjacent teeth for installation and place temporary crowns until the permanent ones are ready.
- After a while, the doctor removes the temporary crowns and installs the bridge with the permanent ceramic crowns using special medical materials to secure them in place. The doctor then asks the patient to bite down to ensure the bite is comfortable and not causing any discomfort.
“We understand the importance of dental health, which is why we offer the best dental care services.”
After Installing the Bridge
There are several things the patient should be careful to do after installing a dental bridge, including:
- Not eating or drinking for at least an hour and a half after installation.
- Feeling swelling and inflammation in the area surrounding the installation, and you may experience some bleeding.
- When eating, use the opposite side of the installation for at least 24 hours.
- Pay attention to dental hygiene and use a soft toothbrush and suitable toothpaste, and use them carefully on the installation side.
- Be sure to use dental floss to remove food residue stuck between the teeth.
- The patient will feel some pain in the installation area, especially in the gums, immediately after installing the bridge due to the numbing effects wearing off. This is normal, but if the patient feels pain two or three days after installation, especially when eating, they should visit the doctor.
- Avoid eating chewy foods like gum.
- When consuming hard foods, they should be cut into small pieces and consumed carefully to avoid damaging the bridge in its early stages.
- Avoid smoking, at least during the first few days after installation, as it may increase gum inflammation caused by the installation.
Advantages of Fixed Dental Bridges
Many doctors resort to using bridges as a treatment for replacing missing teeth because they have many advantages, including the following:
- Bridges are lightweight, making chewing and grinding easier without causing any pain or discomfort.
- They blend quickly with adjacent teeth, helping the patient get used to them, especially when biting down.
- They last for long periods, provided they are properly cared for and the doctor’s instructions are followed.
- The installation period takes no more than two sessions, making them suitable for many people.
- They improve the appearance and shape of the teeth, making them look natural.
Advantages of Fixed Dental Bridges
Disadvantages of Fixed Dental Bridges
Despite the many advantages of dental bridges, there are some minor drawbacks, which we will list below:
- They affect the adjacent natural teeth due to the extra pressure on them, which can cause a number of other problems.
- One of the important procedures when installing a bridge, as mentioned earlier, is shaving the adjacent teeth to install the ceramic crowns, which can weaken the natural teeth.
- They may increase the likelihood of tooth decay in the adjacent teeth, especially if not properly cared for.
- The patient may need to replace the dental bridge at least every 10 years or less, especially if neglected.
- They may cause tooth sensitivity due to shaving the enamel layer of the teeth to install the ceramic crowns.
- In the long run, they may cause nerve problems.
Dental Bridge Shapes
There are various shapes of dental bridges, including fixed bridges that last with the patient for long periods, and removable ones that can be easily removed and installed. They are made of various materials such as porcelain and zirconia. The appropriate shape is chosen according to each case and the doctor’s assessment of the patient’s problem.
Keep your smile healthy and looking great with our experts in treating tooth loss!
Materials Used to Make Dental Bridges
There are several metals that experts may use to form dental bridges, including gold and titanium, which are known for their durability and strength, making them able to withstand pressure. However, many people dislike their appearance. Therefore, some experts have started using porcelain because of its color resemblance to natural teeth, although it is more prone to breaking. With technological advancements, some experts have been able to use zirconia, which combines a suitable color and durability.
Lifespan of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can last between 5 to 15 years, but they may last longer if the patient follows up with their doctor, treats any problems that arise, maintains good dental hygiene, and avoids habits that may cause the bridge to fall out, such as smoking, consuming hard foods, or carbonated drinks.
Lifespan of Dental Bridges
How to Care for a Fixed Dental Bridge
After installing the dental bridge, the doctor will provide you with some instructions and guidelines to follow to maintain the bridge for long periods and prevent any complications, including the following:
- Establish a daily routine for dental care by brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after every meal.
- Use medical products such as a strong mouthwash that kills bacteria and dental floss to remove food residue from between the teeth.
- Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as they contain nicotine, which contributes to tooth decay.
- Avoid hard foods that may cause the bridge to break, such as nuts.
- Follow a diet rich in fiber and natural vitamins that help strengthen teeth, jaw bones, and gum health.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath Caused by Dental Bridges
In some cases, installing bridges may cause bad breath, which can be very uncomfortable for the patient. In this section, we will discuss some ways to get rid of bad breath:
- Dental Hygiene: It is essential to brush your teeth at least three times after each meal to remove food residue that can contribute to bacterial growth, the leading cause of bad breath. Use medical products such as dental floss to remove small particles stuck between teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach, and use a daily mouthwash to moisten the mouth and kill bacteria. It is recommended to use mouthwash before bedtime.
- Visit the Doctor: It is necessary to make regular visits to the doctor to remove bacteria, tartar, and plaque from the teeth and under the gums, which can cause bad breath, and to detect and treat any dental problems.
- Home Remedies: The patient should drink a large amount of water daily, as it helps produce saliva that cleanses the mouth of harmful bacteria. Gargle with salt water at least twice a day to remove any deposits or bacteria. You can also use natural herbs such as tea, cloves, and chamomile to help get rid of bad breath.
Cost of Dental Bridges
There are many different prices circulating, which can be confusing for patients who want to know the cost of dental bridges. However, we cannot definitively say that these prices are incorrect because they depend on several factors, including:
- The quality of materials used in the laboratory to manufacture the bridge.
- The type of technology used to install the bridges.
- The doctor’s experience in diagnosing the problem and choosing the appropriate technique and their skill in using it and installing the bridges.
- If the patient has other dental problems that may hinder the installation, they must be treated before installation.
- If the patient underwent general or dental-specific tests, such as panoramic X-rays and dental X-rays.
- The number of teeth that need bridges installed.
- The number of sessions the patient may need, as determined by the doctor.
- The services and care provided by the center or clinic to the patient.
With all these factors taken into account, we can estimate the average cost of installing bridges in Egypt in 2023 to be between 1000 to 4000 Egyptian pounds for porcelain bridges, and between 2000 to 6000 Egyptian pounds for E.max bridges.
Results
Results of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are considered one of the most important current treatments that can be used to restore a patient’s teeth, as their results are guaranteed and successful in 97% of cases. They restore the natural function of the teeth, such as improving chewing, grinding, and withstanding pressure. They also restore the natural appearance of the teeth alongside the adjacent teeth, thus restoring the patient’s confidence, especially when speaking and smiling.
Best Center for Dental Treatment and Cosmetics
Many people feel confused when choosing a center for their dental treatment. However, there are some international standards that dental centers should meet, including:
- The center should have a large number of specialized doctors in various fields, whether cosmetic, such as veneers and Hollywood smiles, or therapeutic, such as installing bridges and dental implants.
- The center should provide the latest technologies and devices used by doctors to achieve guaranteed results.
- The center should have equipment for other procedures, such as X-rays and panoramic images, to make it easier for the patient.
- The center should have a well-organized and cooperative staff to provide the best service and care for patients.
- Easy communication with the center through social media in case of inquiries about any issues.
- The center should apply cleanliness and sterilization standards set by international health organizations.
- Easy access to the center’s location.
According to these standards, we can recommend one of the most important medical centers in Egypt, which is The Dental Center. You can check patient reviews and their major achievements by visiting their website through the provided link.
Best Center for Dental Treatment and Cosmetics
"Professional Dentist at the Dental Care Medical Center
Welcome to the Dental Care Medical Center, where we offer a full range of preventive, therapeutic, and cosmetic dental services. We have a team of the best dentists in Egypt, who have extensive experience in all areas of dentistry.
Extens ... read more
We are always happy to answer your inquiries