At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we’re here to help restore your smile. We can create bridges to improve chewing and speaking while enhancing the appearance of your teeth. We have advanced dental expertise, which can help us achieve beautiful and long-lasting results for your dental bridge. Get the compassionate care you deserve from our team.
The Types of Bridges We Provide
We offer a wide range of dental bridge options to replace missing teeth. During your comprehensive exam, Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss will assess the condition of your smile, review your cosmetic goals, and provide personalized recommendations tailored to your needs.
Traditional Bridge
This bridge uses one or several artificial teeth supported by two natural teeth and topped with dental crowns. Traditional bridges are strong and usually made from zirconia or ceramic. This type of bridge is the most common.
Cantilever Bridge
With this bridge, a single natural tooth supports the dental bridge. A dental crown sits on the natural tooth, and the artificial tooth stays in place using the neighboring dental crown. We recommend this bridge for areas with less biting pressure, such as the front of the mouth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant bridge utilizes dental implants as a substitute for natural teeth for support. This type of restoration replaces multiple, consecutive missing teeth. Implants may help your new teeth last longer.
Maryland Bridge
This type of bridge uses metal or porcelain connectors to support the artificial teeth. Instead of crowns, the bridge is bonded to the back of the neighboring teeth with small wings. It’s a more conservative option because it doesn’t require much shaping of the natural teeth. However, it may not be as strong as other types and is best suited for front teeth, where less force is applied during chewing.
The Dental Bridge Process at The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry
Traditional dental bridge procedure
We employ a meticulous, in-depth process to achieve exceptional results. Here’s how it works:
- First visit: We’ll discuss your situation and prepare the anchor teeth. During this visit, we’ll also perform imaging and bite analysis to help create a custom bridge.
- Design: We can design the bridge in the chosen material based on the imaging from your initial visit.
- Second visit: We deliver the bridge under local anesthesia to enhance comfort during the procedure. For more complex restorations, we may deliver a temporary bridge and deliver the permanent bridge during a future appointment.
An implant-supported bridge requires a longer process because it involves waiting for the implants to heal before placing the bridge.
Benefits of Choosing Us
Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss both have advanced expertise, which enables them to provide exceptional results. Dr. Stein has three years of additional training in prosthodontics, which enhances the tooth restoration process. Dr. Weiss has completed an advanced residency in general dentistry.
In addition to our expertise, we provide comprehensive care. Our team focuses on using high-quality materials and consulting with you to get a natural and beautiful result you love. We also use advanced technology to enhance your experience and achieve more predictable results.
Patient Review
Dental Bridge FAQs
Dental bridges replace one or multiple missing teeth. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
How long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years or more with proper care. Factors like material use, oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups affect their longevity. Avoiding hard foods and following our dentist’s care instructions can help extend the bridge’s lifespan. With good maintenance, bridges remain a durable and reliable option.
Are dental bridges painful to get?
Getting a dental bridge is not usually painful, as the procedure involves local anesthesia. You may experience mild discomfort during tooth preparation or after the bridge is placed. This discomfort is temporary and usually resolves within a few days. Dr. Stein will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the process.
How long does it take to get a dental bridge?
It takes two to three visits to get a bridge over a few weeks. The first visit involves preparing the anchor teeth and taking impressions for the custom bridge. The permanent bridge is fitted and cemented into place at the second visit. Temporary bridges are sometimes used while waiting for the final restoration.
It’ll take more time to get an implant-supported bridge. You need time for the implants to heal and may need pretreatments if you have gum disease or need a tooth extraction.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
A dental bridge allows you to eat comfortably, but you should start with soft foods after the procedure. Once you adjust, you can eat most foods, though it’s best to avoid hard or sticky items that could damage the bridge. Proper chewing on both sides of your mouth helps distribute pressure evenly. Our dentist will provide guidelines for how to eat with your new bridge.
Can a dental bridge replace more than one tooth?
Yes, a dental bridge can replace multiple missing teeth if there are sufficient anchor teeth or implants to support it. The size and type of bridge depend on the gap’s location and the health of the surrounding teeth. A dentist will assess your needs to determine the best solution. Longer spans may require implant-supported bridges for extra stability.
Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?
Good candidates for dental bridges have one or more missing teeth and healthy adjacent teeth or implants to support the bridge. If needed, they should have good oral hygiene and sufficient bone density for implant-supported bridges. A dentist will evaluate your specific case to determine the best type of bridge. Regular dental visits and care are crucial for maintaining the bridge.
Restoring Smiles Across the North Shore
We’re here to help transform your smile. Our office in Skokie, IL, serves patients throughout the North Shore. Contact us at 847-750-3125 or schedule a consultation online to begin the dental bridge process.