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Dental Bridges in Washington, DC

At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers dental bridges as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.

What Are Dental Bridges and How Are the Restorations Used?

Dental bridges are designed to replace missing teeth. The restorations are helpful as they can improve functionality, fix one’s bite, and remedy such conditions as temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. Adding a dental bridge can also lessen the risk of tooth decay and improve one’s speech.

What Types of Bridges Are Used?

Dental bridges are represented by fixed bridges in the form of conventional bridges, resin-bonded bridges (also called Maryland bonded bridges), and cantilever bridges.

The Conventional Bridge

The conventional or traditional bridge is most frequently used to replace missing teeth. It is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or porcelain.

A Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is designed to support a replacement tooth on just one side.

A Resin-bonded Bridge

A resin-bonded bridge is typically located toward the front part of the mouth where the force of the bite is less pronounced. The restoration is made up of a denture fused to metal and affixed with a resin to abutment teeth.

How Is the Site Prepared for the Bridge?

In the case of a cantilever bridge or conventional bridge, the teeth surrounding the missing tooth or teeth are shaped. Crowns are then applied to the shaped teeth and affixed to a pontic or artificial tooth. Prep time for a resin-bonded bridge takes less time as the bridge is generally used to replace the front teeth.


What Is Included in the Steps for the Procedure?



What Materials Go into the Making of a Bridge?

Dental bridges may be made of porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal (including gold). The type of bridge you ultimately choose will be based on its function, placement in the mouth, and the appearance and cost of the restoration. Again, dental bridges are made with porcelain and gold or another metal or with durable metal-free materials such as alumina or zirconia.

What Is Involved in the After-care?

After installation of the bridge, the dentist provides patients with information on maintaining the bridge. A special type of bridge threader is used to remove food particles and plaque surrounding the bridge and between the pontic or pontics and gums. Brushing with a toothpaste containing fluoride should be done twice a day.

Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?


How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost in Greenbelt, MD?

The cost for dental bridges varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.

Your dental insurance may cover the cost of dental bridges. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your dental bridges coverage.

We provide financing through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket dental bridges costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our dental bridges patients.

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Written by University Centre Dental Associates March 19, 2014