HOME

Dental Bridges in Rapid City, SD

Porcelain Bridge on Clay Model

Wilson Park Dental provides dental bridges in Rapid City, SD. Call 605-343-9352 to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Missing one or more teeth is common for many people.

The ADA reports that on average adult patients may have three missing or decayed teeth due to tooth loss from gum disease, decay, or injury. Fortunately, there are a number of solutions to fill gaps and restore oral function, including dental bridges. A dental bridge may be used to restore an area with one or more adjacent missing teeth and help you feel confident in your smile again.

How Dental Bridges Work

A bridge has two primary components.  The abutments (or supports) for the bridge are created by placing a dental crown on either a natural tooth or dental implants. The artificial teeth that replace the missing teeth are called pontics. In the case of one missing tooth, the two teeth on either side will be prepped for dental crowns and the missing tooth will be replaced with a false tooth that is connected to the crowns on either side of the gap. These crowned teeth, also called abutment teeth, provide essential support for the bridge and surrounding teeth. In the case of several adjacent missing teeth, one or more dental implants may provide the abutment for a more stable restoration.

There are four main types of dental bridges:

Traditional Dental Bridge

This is the most common type of fixed bridge. The existing teeth are crowned with one or more pontics between and held in place by the crowned abutments. The crowns are cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth adjacent to the missing teeth to create a support structure or “bridge” for the replacement teeth. This permanent bridge provides excellent stability and restores your ability to eat most foods comfortably.

Cantilever Bridge

This type of bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, except that the structure is supported on only one side instead of both sides. While useful for replacing a back tooth when only one adjacent tooth is available, this can cause the restoration to act as a “lever” and may create additional stress on the supporting tooth, causing it to be more likely to loosen or fracture.

Implant Supported Bridge

Instead of using existing remaining teeth to support a bridge, dental implants may be substituted to provide support for one or both sides of a dental bridge. This is a popular option that can provide a very secure restoration without affecting other teeth. This solution is particularly helpful when there are several adjacent missing teeth or when you want to preserve your natural teeth structure.

Maryland Bridge

This type of fixed bridge is supported by a metal structure which is cemented onto the back of existing teeth. While not as strong as a traditional fixed bridge, it can preserve the tooth structure of the adjacent natural teeth by avoiding the use of crowns for the abutments. It may not stay in place when heavy forces are placed on the restoration (such as biting and chewing) and does add pressure to the supporting teeth.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

During your initial consultation, our dentist will evaluate your dental health and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Most patients find the dental bridge procedure stress free and straightforward.

The process typically involves:

  1. Preparing the abutment teeth by reshaping them to accommodate the dental crowns

  2. Taking impressions to create your custom bridge that will blend seamlessly with your smile

  3. Placing a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain oral function

  4. Once your permanent bridge is ready, we remove the temporary restoration and carefully fit your new bridge

  5. Making adjustments to ensure a proper bite and natural appearance

  6. Cementing the permanent crown components in place to complete your restoration

Local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, making your dental experience as pleasant as possible.

Contact our office to learn more about your restorative options and achieve the smile you have always wanted. Call 605-343-9352 to schedule an appointment.

HOME