At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers fixed bridges as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
What Are Fixed Dental Bridges and How Are the Restorations Used?
Fixed dental bridges are designed to replace missing teeth. The restorations are helpful as they can improve functionality, fix one’s bite, and remedy such conditions as temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. Adding a fixed dental bridge can also lessen the risk of tooth decay and improve one’s speech.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Fixed Bridge?
Strong candidates are missing one or more teeth while the remaining teeth are strong and healthy. The best candidates also follow good oral hygiene practices to get the most out of the new bridge.
What Types of Bridges Are Used?
Fixed dental bridges can be conventional bridges, resin-bonded bridges (also called Maryland bonded bridges), or cantilever bridges.
The Conventional Bridge
The conventional or traditional bridge is most frequently used to replace missing teeth. They are usually made of crowns fused together and are cemented to prepared teeth (or abutments) on either side of a space where teeth are missing.
A Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge is used in spaces where abutment teeth are available on only one side and where biting forces are not great.
A Resin-bonded Bridge
A resin-bonded bridge is typically located toward the front part of the mouth where the force of the bite is less pronounced. It is usually a single tooth replacement that is bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth for support.
How Is the Site Prepared for the Bridge?
In the case of conventional bridge, the teeth surrounding the missing tooth or teeth are reshaped. Prep time for a resin-bonded bridge takes less time as the preparations are usually conservative and done only on the backs of the adjacent teeth.
To prepare the site, the dentist usually takes x-rays of the bridge site along with preoperative photos. Usually a bridge consists of two cemented crowns on each side of one or two pontics or false teeth. Impressions are taken after the abutment teeth are prepared for the bridge and sent to a lab for fabrication of the bridge. A temporary acrylic bridge is placed in the interim.
What Is Included in the Steps for the Procedure?
During the initial visit, the dentist will examine the teeth and gums and will prepare the teeth for a bridge installation. A local anesthetic is given during this process. An impression is made with a putty-type material, which is utilized to produce a model for the teeth. The bridge is designed based on the resulting model to ensure the fit of the restoration.
While the bridge is being made in the lab, the dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to wear until your second visit. The procedure is completed on the second visit, when the permanent bridge is fitted and affixed to the space with cement.
Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.
How Much Do Fixed Bridges Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for fixed bridges varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance may cover the cost of fixed bridges. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your fixed bridges coverage.
We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket fixed bridges costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our fixed bridges patients.
Additional Restorative Dentistry Services:
- Dental Bridges
- CEREC® Procedure
- Composite Fillings
- Crowns (Caps)
- Endodontics
- Periodontics
- Root Canal
- TMJ Mouth Guards
- Tooth Restoration
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve.