Bridges

Bridges, also known as fixed partial dentures, are offered at the office of Dr. Bob Mays in Sparks, Nevada for the replacement of missing teeth. These restorations can be fabricated to replace front or back teeth. Currently, dental implants have taken over as the primary recommended method of replacing single or multiple missing teeth in most healthy patients. However, there are numerous conditions and reasons that bridges are being done today rather than using dental implants for the replacement of missing teeth. Here in the office of Dr. Bob Mays in Sparks, bridges are recommended when indicated as the best alternative for replacing missing teeth.

Reasons that a bridge would be recommended and indicated over dental implants would include:

  1. Patients medical history would contra indicate the surgical placement of a dental implant.
  2. Inadequate jaw bone available to place a dental implant.
  3. Patients desire to not have the bone graft surgery necessary to place a dental implant.
  4. Patients desire to not have the surgery to place a dental implant even with adequate jaw bone available.
  5. Teeth adjacent to the space require restoration for function and or esthetics.

To fabricate a bridge, two or more steps are necessary depending on the size and complexity . The vast majority of bridges are fabricated indirectly in a dental laboratory. There is very limited availability at this time for in office CEREC CAD/CAM bridges but the technology is coming. The abutment or anchor teeth next to the space are shaped to receive a crown style of restoration. Usually a temporary restoration is fabricated and cemented to place while the final restoration is being made. Most bridges can be fabricated in 2-3 weeks. They can be all metal, metal and porcelain or all porcelain depending on the clinical situation. Once the restoration is finished, the patient returns for the second visit to have the bridge fitted and bonded to place. These restorations are not removable. They are "glued" to the abutment or anchor teeth.

Here in the office of Dr. Bob Mays in Sparks, bridges are recommended as a tooth replacement alternative in the right circumstances. With the strength and esthetics of the materials available today for the fabrication of a fixed dental bridge, this treatment alternative is the best option for some patients. My staff and I would be happy to cover treatment alternatives for your particular condition.