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Tooth loss affects oral health and can significantly impact quality of life. From making it difficult to eat certain foods to lowering your confidence, missing teeth can change daily routines in more ways than one. That’s when many people start searching for fast restorative solutions—like dental bridges in Bridgeport.

Compared to dental implants, which may take up to six months to complete, bridges offer a quicker and more budget-friendly option. But how much time does it take to get one?

The Process for Getting a Dental Bridge

A bridge is a dental appliance used to restore one or more missing teeth. It works by placing two crowns on the natural teeth surrounding the gap and “bridging” the space through a restoration that sits on top of the gums called the pontic.

Getting dental bridges typically involves several steps over two or more dental visits.

Step 1: Consultation and Dental Exam

• Time required: 30 to 60 minutes

First, you must undergo a deep examination to evaluate if a bridge is the right solution. During this time, the dentist examines your teeth, gums, and bone structure using visual assessment, X-rays, and possibly 3D scans.

It’s particularly important to assess whether the adjacent teeth are healthy and strong enough to support the dental bridge or if alternatives, like an implant-supported bridge, could be better in the long term.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

• Time required: 60 to 90 minutes

Once it has been determined that you’re ready for a bridge, the dentist must prepare the surrounding teeth that will be getting crowns.

The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth (called abutment teeth) are reshaped and filed down. This ensures there’s enough space to bond a dental crown in place.

Step 3: Impressions

• Time required: 15 to 30 minutes

Once the teeth have been filed down, the dentist takes impressions of the prepared teeth and the surrounding area. These are sent to a dental lab where the bridge will be custom-made, ensuring a precise fit.

Step 4: Temporary Bridge Placement

• Time required: 15 to 30 minutes

While you wait for the permanent bridge to be manufactured, the dentist will place a temporary bridge to maintain function and appearance while protecting your exposed teeth and gums from sensitivity.

Step 5: Permanent Bridge Fitting

• Time required: 30 to 90 minutes

Once the permanent bridge is ready, it’s time to install it.

The temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent one is tried in. Your dentist will check the fit, bite, and aesthetics. If all is well, the bridge is cemented into place.

Step 6: Follow-Up Visit

• Time required: 15 to 30 minutes

After the bridge is completed, we’ll ask you to return for a follow-up visit so we can assess your comfort and proper function.

If there’s any issue, we’ll make necessary adjustments and ensure your bridge performs well.

So, How Long Does Getting Dental Bridges in Bridgeport Take?

As you can see, getting a dental bridge involves a few steps, but the overall process is quicker than many expect. Within just 2 to 3 weeks, you can enjoy a fully functional restoration. Typically, only 2 to 3 dental visits are required.

While some cases may move faster, at Brooklawn Dental Associates, we prioritize careful assessment and custom design to ensure your bridge fits perfectly and lasts longer. Want to learn more about dental bridges? Contact us today!