A dental bridge is a tooth replacement option for one or a few adjacent teeth. A traditional bridge is a semi-permanent prosthetic device, meaning that it is put in place by a dentist and can only be safely removed by a dentist. If your dental bridge is loose or if the support teeth need dental work, can it be removed and recemented back into place? It depends on the situation. Here are the important factors that determine whether or not an existing bridge can be reused.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more adjacent teeth. It looks like a connected row of artificial teeth, either 3 or more long. Both ends of the bridge are crowns that fit over the healthy teeth on each side of the missing teeth. The artificial teeth, called pontics, are suspended between them across the gap. The pontics sit on top of the gums, anchored in place by the existing teeth. The crowns are cemented to the existing teeth with dental cement that provides a solid hold lasting many years.
Factors to Consider When it Comes to Recementing or Replacing a Bridge
If your current bridge is loose or needs to be removed to access the teeth under it, it may be able to be removed and cemented back into place. For this to be possible, the following questions must be answered:
- Can the bridge come off intact? The bridge may be loose on one support tooth but not the other, making it difficult to remove from both teeth in one piece. In some cases it may be able to be removed intact, but if not it will need to be removed in pieces. This means the crown will not be reusable.
- Will removing it damage the support teeth? Removing a dental bridge that is cemented into place can potentially damage the support teeth it is attached to. If the dentist can’t loosen the bond without damaging the tooth beneath it, it will need to be removed in pieces and will not be reusable.
- What is the condition of the bridge? If you’ve been wearing the current bridge for a long time, it may need to be replaced due to normal wear and tear. A bridge can wear down from years of chewing force and lose its structural integrity.
- What is the condition of the support teeth? Over time a bridge puts a lot of pressure on the support teeth, which can cause damage. If the support teeth are no longer strong enough to support the bridge, an implant supported bridge may be needed. This will require a new bridge to be made. The support teeth can be replaced with dental implants that will act as anchors for the new bridge.
Glassman Dental Care Provides Dental Bridge Services
If you need a dental bridge or you have a bridge that is loose, Glassman Dental Care provides a full range of dental bridge services. We can attempt to remove your bridge intact and recement it if possible. We can also provide a replacement bridge when necessary. Replacing missing or damaged teeth is important to your dental health, allowing you to chew effectively, speak clearly, and keep your remaining teeth in proper alignment.
Call 212-787-4860 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.