It’s true that missing teeth can be embarrassing and can lead to dental problems. If you have missing teeth, that’s okay! There are many people with similar dental issues. If you have a gap in your smile, you may need a temporary dental bridge while you are waiting for your permanent bridge to be constructed.
What is A Temporary Dental Bridge?
A temporary dental bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the space created by a lost tooth or to cover prepped teeth. This kind of dental bridge is placed on the prepared teeth while the permanent restoration is being fabricated in the dental laboratory. These temporary bridges serve very significant purposes.
- The most important function of a temporary bridge is to protect the exposed dentin, so it is not sensitive.
- The second purpose of the temporary bridge is to prevent food and bacteria from collecting on the tooth preparation.
- The third purpose is to prevent the tooth from shifting or moving to the open spaces which can make seating of the permanent restoration more difficult or even impossible.
The temporary bridges at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry are fixed on the prepped teeth with a cement that is designed to come off easily. It is important to avoid chewing sticky foods such as gum or taffy or anything very crunchy while having these temporary ridges on your teeth.
Always remember to use your toothbrush to clean the temporary bridge as you normally do with your natural teeth. While flossing these bridges it is always best to slide the floss out below the contact rather than popping up through the contact between the temporary and the adjacent tooth.
How Long do Temporary Dental Bridges Last?
A temporary bridge is an important step in the process of getting the perfect permanent dental bridge. A temporary bridge is a solution to protect your teeth and help you drink or eat until the permanent bridge is ready.
According to the experts at Lane DDS, temporary bridges can last up to 6 months. It will give you a good idea of how your new smile will look once the permanent bridge is cemented. You’ll likely get your permanent bridge just a couple of weeks into the process from Lane and Associates Family Dentistry.
Can You Eat with a Temporary Bridge?
Did you know that the temporary bridge for your teeth is not a long-lasting option as the permanent dental bridge? It is cemented with a temporary filling that comes off easily, so there are a few things you should know while wearing a temporary bridge.
- You should always avoid chewing on hard food such as nuts.
- Avoid crunchy and sticky foods that include toffees, gum, and caramel.
All the above-mentioned food could cause your bridge to come loose. Other than these few textures that you should stay away from, you can eat normally with a dental bridge in place.
Can You Sleep With a Temporary Bridge?
Yes, you can sleep with a temporary bridge. Temporary bridges are designed to stay in place and protect your teeth and gums while you wait for your permanent bridge. It’s important to keep it in your mouth at all times, including when you sleep, to ensure your teeth do not shift and the prepared area remains protected.
Do Temporary Bridges Look Real?
Temporary bridges are made to look similar to your natural teeth, but they might not look as realistic as permanent bridges. They are usually made from acrylic or composite materials, which can be slightly less lifelike compared to the materials used for permanent bridges. However, they still provide a good cosmetic solution while you wait for your permanent bridge.
Can Temporary Bridges Fall Out?
Yes, temporary bridges can fall out, especially if they are not cared for properly. They are fixed with a temporary cement that is designed to be easily removed when it’s time to place the permanent bridge. To prevent your temporary bridge from falling out, avoid eating sticky or hard foods, and follow your dentist’s care instructions closely.
What to Avoid After Getting a Temporary Bridge
After getting a temporary bridge, there are several things you should avoid to ensure it stays in place and functions properly:
- Avoid Sticky Foods: Foods like gum, caramel, and taffy can stick to the bridge and potentially dislodge it.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Hard foods such as nuts, hard candy, and raw vegetables can break or loosen the bridge.
- Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools: Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bite down on non-food items.
- Chew Carefully: Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth from where the temporary bridge is located.
How Do You Brush Your Teeth With a Temporary Bridge?
Brushing your teeth with a temporary bridge requires a bit of extra care to avoid dislodging the bridge:
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums without applying too much pressure.
- Brush Gently Around the Bridge: Carefully brush around the temporary bridge to remove plaque and food particles.
- Floss Carefully: When flossing around the temporary bridge, slide the floss out gently rather than pulling it up through the contact point between the bridge and your natural teeth. This helps to avoid pulling the bridge loose.
Are Temporary Dental Bridges Removable?
The temporary dental bridges are fabricated from porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. These bridges are either made to remain fixed in your mouth or removable when the permanent bridge is ready to be cemented.
A temporary bridge is not removable in the way that many people think. They do not operate like dentures, allowing the patient to take the bridge on and off at will. The temporary solution is cemented in place so that it can be replaced when the permanent bridge is ready. Your dentist is the only one that should remove the temporary bridge.
What is a temporary dental bridge made of?
A temporary dental bridge provided by Lane and Associates will help maintain the teeth in their correct positions and avoid further dental complications. These crowns in a temporary bridge are made of acrylic, which is easy for the dentist to manipulate and adjust.
Temporary vs permanent dental bridge
A temporary dental bridge is, as the name implies, a temporary dental appliance that will be cemented on the prepped teeth. While you are wearing the temporary bridge, the permanent bridge is carefully crafted by our expert dental technicians from the impressions of your tooth structure that will be taken on your first visit.
Temporary dental bridges give protection to the gums or teeth and make sure that the adjacent teeth will not shift their position.
A permanent dental bridge is a durable dental treatment option that is cemented on the prepped teeth with permanent cement. This type of bridge is made up of different dental materials such as porcelain, zirconium, and many other durable dental materials. These permanent bridges are fabricated in the dental laboratory by advanced dental technologies.
Which teeth can you get a temporary dental bridge on?
The dentists make a temporary tooth bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums of a prepped tooth. It can stay in place for six months to a year, it can become discolored due to the material used for making a temporary tooth bridge.
In most cases dental bridges are used on the teeth between your molars and front teeth. Dental bridges are usually not used on the molars due to the pressure that is put on these teeth during day to day use.
Are you looking for dental treatment options but concerned about managing your prepped teeth until you get a permanent bridge? Don’t worry, we have the solution for all your concerns! Don’t let space in your teeth affect your beautiful smile or oral health. Instead, consider getting a temporary dental bridge at Lane and Associates Family Dentistry before receiving a fixed bridge.
