Dental Bridges at Polygems Dental Care

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges consist of artificial teeth (pontics) that are attached to natural teeth (abutment teeth) or dental implants on either side of the gap. Dental bridges can restore your smile, chewing function, and facial appearance. Dental bridges can also prevent your remaining teeth from shifting and your jawbone from shrinking.

There are different types of dental bridges that can suit different dental needs and preferences. Some of the common ones are:

• Traditional bridges: These are the most common type of bridges. They involve placing crowns on the abutment teeth and attaching pontics to them. The pontics can be made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
• Maryland bridges: These are also known as resin-bonded bridges. They involve bonding a metal or porcelain framework with wings to the back of the abutment teeth. The pontics are attached to the framework and fill the gap.
• Cantilever bridges: These are similar to traditional bridges, but they only require one abutment tooth instead of two. The pontic is supported by a crown on one side of the gap.
• Implant-supported bridges: These are the most stable and durable type of bridges. They involve placing dental implants into the jawbone and attaching pontics to them. The implants act as artificial roots and anchor the bridge securely.

Why Do You Need Dental Bridges?

You may need dental bridges if you have lost some or all of your natural teeth due to tooth decay, gum disease, injury, or other reasons. Dental bridges can provide you with many benefits, such as:

• Improving your appearance and self-esteem by filling the gaps in your smile
• Enhancing your speech and pronunciation by supporting your lips and cheeks
• Increasing your chewing ability and nutrition by allowing you to eat a variety of foods
• Protecting your oral health and preventing further tooth loss by distributing the biting force evenly

How are Dental Bridges Made?

Dental bridges are made by a qualified dentist at Polygems Dental Care. The process usually takes two to three visits and involves the following steps:

• The dentist will examine your mouth and take an X-ray to assess the condition and suitability of your gums, bones, and remaining teeth for dental bridges.
• The dentist will discuss with you the type and design of dental bridges that best suit your needs and preferences. You can choose between different materials, shapes, sizes, colours, and alignments of your pontics.
• The dentist will prepare your abutment teeth by removing some enamel from them to make room for the crowns or frameworks. This may cause some sensitivity or discomfort.
• The dentist will take an impression of your prepared teeth and send it to a dental laboratory where your dental bridges will be fabricated. This may take one to two weeks.
• The dentist will place temporary bridges on your teeth to protect them until your permanent bridges are ready.
• The dentist will receive the final bridges from the laboratory and place them in your mouth. They will check the fit, colour, shape, and appearance of your bridges and make any necessary adjustments.
• The dentist will cement the permanent bridges to your abutment teeth using a special adhesive. They will then polish and trim the excess material and check your bite and smile.
• The dentist will give you some instructions on how to care for your dental bridges and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Dental Bridges?

The benefits of dental bridges are:

• They are cost-effective and easy to make compared to other tooth replacement options
• They are removable and can be adjusted or repaired if damaged
• They can improve your quality of life by restoring your smile and function

The risks of dental bridges are:

• They may take some time to get used to and may cause some discomfort or irritation at first
• They may not feel as natural or stable as your original teeth or implants
• They may affect your taste sensation or cause excess saliva production
• They may require frequent relining or replacement as your gums and bones change over time due to ageing or tooth loss

How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?

The cost of dental bridges depends on several factors, such as:

• The type and number of pontics that you need
• The complexity and duration of the procedure
• The experience and qualifications of the dentist
• The location and reputation of the dental clinic

Can I Use MediSave Pay for Dental Bridges?

No, you cannot use MediSave for Dental Bridges.

Can I Use CHAS subsidies for Dental Bridges?

No, you cannot at the point of publishing. For updated information, head to www.chas.sg

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about dental bridges:

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges can last for several years if they are well-maintained and cared for. However, they may need to be relined or replaced as your gums and bones change over time due to ageing or tooth loss. You should visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning to ensure that your dental bridges fit properly and function well.

How do I clean my dental bridges?

You should clean your dental bridges daily to remove plaque, food particles, and stains. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a special bridge brush to gently scrub your dental bridges. You should also floss under your pontics using a floss threader or a water flosser to prevent gum disease and bad breath. You should also rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after eating or drinking to prevent staining.

Can I eat normally with dental bridges?

You can eat most foods with dental bridges, but you may need to avoid some hard, sticky, or chewy foods that may damage your dental bridges or cause them to slip out of place. You may also need to cut your food into smaller pieces and chew slowly and evenly on both sides of your mouth. You should also drink plenty of water and avoid drinking hot beverages that may warp your dental bridges.

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