When patients in and around the Azusa area are dealing with tooth loss, they may be faced with a variety of restorative solutions including dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. Patients who want a permanent, economical solution to their lost teeth may benefit from dental bridges.

Dental bridges are restorative solutions used to fill the gap that results from the loss of a natural tooth. A bridge is a false tooth that is bonded to dental crowns to “bridge the gap” and repair the aesthetics and function of the smile. Dental bridges require adjacent teeth to anchor the restoration in place. The most common types of dental bridges are the traditional fixed bridge, a cantilever bridge, and a resin-bonded bridge.

Dr. Luu of Gentle Care Dentistry of San Gabriel Valley in the Azusa area can help patients obtain bridges in approximately two appointments. The first appointment is three steps. The first step is the preparation of the surrounding teeth for the bonding of the crown. This may require removal of enamel. Then, Dr. Luu takes an impression (or mold) of the natural teeth which is sent to an outside laboratory where a ceramist will fabricate the bridge. Third, Dr. Luu places a temporary restoration for the patient in the meantime as the permanent bridge may take a week or two to complete. At the second visit, patients enjoy the placement of their final bridge using special cementing material to hold it firmly in place over the adjacent teeth. Patients may schedule future appointments to monitor the fit and make any necessary adjustments.

Dr. Luu believes that patients should have a number of solutions available to them when it comes to restoring their smiles after tooth loss. Dental bridges are often a viable solution for patients missing one or more teeth in the dental arch who want a permanent restoration that is attainable. In many cases, dental bridges may be covered in full or part with dental insurance, so patients should always discuss with our billing department the use of their dental insurance plan for possible coverage.

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