What to Expect from a Dental Bridge Procedure?

Every patient has different dental needs, and we at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima recognize this. Determining the number of visits for a dental bridge procedure depends on several individual factors. We encourage our patients to discuss these in detail with our skilled dentists to understand the entire process and to explore the details of the treatment plan and appointment schedule. Typically, the procedure for a dental bridge at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima does require multiple appointments, often at least two.

The factors influencing the number of appointments include the complexity of the case, such as the extent of tooth decay or damage, the number of missing teeth, and the location of the bridge, along with the condition of the supporting teeth. The health and strength of the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side of the missing teeth) may necessitate additional treatments, such as root canals. As your teeth begin to move, you may have some early discomfort, but this will go away as your mouth adapts, and it’s actually a positive indication that your aligners are working.

Furthermore, our dentist may want to check on the bridge after it has been in place for a few weeks to ensure it is fitting properly and not causing any discomfort. While a dental bridge can usually be placed in two or three appointments at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima, the exact number will depend on your individual circumstances and the specific details of your case.

At Clean Dentistry By Bellisima, we are committed to ensuring that your dental bridge procedure is both successful and comfortable. Post-procedure, we suggest starting with soft foods that cause minimal strain to the area where the bridge was placed, such as soup, applesauce, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes.

As your mouth heals and adjusts, you can slowly begin reintroducing harder foods into your diet. However, it’s advisable to avoid foods that require a lot of chewing force, like steak, nuts, raw vegetables, and hard candy. Once your mouth has fully adjusted, usually within a few weeks, you can return to your normal diet. It’s essential to remember that dental bridges, while functional, are not as strong as natural teeth, so maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.

To protect your dental bridge and overall oral health, we recommend avoiding excessive consumption of sugary or acidic foods that contribute to dental decay, as well as limiting hard foods like ice and sticky foods like caramel and taffy that could potentially damage or dislodge the bridge.

The journey towards getting a dental bridge at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima typically begins with a comprehensive dental examination and consultation. After this, we will proceed with tooth reduction, where our experienced dentists reshape the teeth on either side of the missing tooth gap by removing a portion of their enamel. This creates space for the crowns of the bridge. Impressions of your prepared teeth and the missing tooth space are then taken, which will serve as a model for the dental lab to craft a custom-fit bridge, including the pontic (false tooth) and crowns.

Once the permanent bridge is ready, we will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the prepared teeth and may provide a temporary restoration, such as temporary crowns, to protect the prepared teeth and maintain the gap. This ensures that you remain comfortable while the permanent bridge is being fabricated.

For the new bridge and adjacent teeth to remain healthy after placement, post-care is essential. It’s crucial to brush, floss, and use mouthwash on a regular basis. To keep an eye on the fit and condition of your bridge and make sure your dental health is at its best, our staff might suggest routine examinations. Additionally, a robust jawbone is required; patients who have a weak jawline may require bone grafting surgeries.

Your comfort and recuperation following dental procedures, including the installation of dental bridges, are our first priorities at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima. Because of the anesthesia, it’s normal to feel a little uncomfortable and numb just after your treatment. To give the area time to heal, we advise refraining from chewing on the side where the bridge was positioned for a few hours.

As your gums and teeth get used to the new bridge, you can feel some minor sensitivity, swelling, and discomfort in the days that follow. Maintaining good oral hygiene will be aided by a soft-food diet and careful brushing and flossing around the bridge. Use desensitizing toothpaste to alleviate sensitivity and schedule a follow-up if needed.

It’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid consuming overly hot, cold, or sticky foods that might disturb the placement of your new dental bridge. Regular rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and keep the area clean. If you experience prolonged discomfort, excessive swelling, or notice any issues with your bite, contact our office promptly for an evaluation. Remember, attending routine dental checkups and professional cleanings ensures the longevity and success of your dental bridge, helping you maintain a healthy and confident smile.

If you’re considering a dental bridge to restore your smile, our team at Clean Dentistry By Bellisima is here to help. With expert care and a personalized approach, we ensure you achieve the best possible results. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a confident, functional smile.  We are conveniently located at 4161 South Eastern Ave, Suite E8, Las Vegas, Nevada 89119. We serve patients from Las Vegas NV, Winchester NV, Paradise NV, Spring Valley NV, North Las Vegas NV, Whitney NV, and surrounding areas.