Firstly, a clinical examination of your dental condition will be carried out. This is when we check on the condition of the teeth and gums.
Secondly, a radiographic examination is done to check on the condition of the underlying bone and any other condition that may not be seen during the clinical examination.
Thirdly, a consultation is done to explain any dental issues that need to be fixed, along with each treatment option’s pros and cons for patient’s consideration.
If patient chooses to proceed with a dental bridge, it is possible to start the process during the same visit if there are no other serious dental concerns (e.g. gum disease). Tooth preparation is done and a dental impression is taken, followed by the issuing of a temporary bridge.
We know how daunting it can be to be without a teeth for some, hence the temporary bridge is in place to protect the tooth and to allow patients to leave the clinic with a complete smile.
However, if other dental issues such as gum disease is present, then we will need to treat that first so that there is a good foundation for the dental bridge. This is done through scaling and root planing (also known as deep cleaning), where the plaque and tartar above and below the gum line are removed. Depending on the severity, this may require more than one visit.
Lastly, when the definitive (final) bridge is ready for issue, the fit and appearance of the bridge is checked. Once both your clinican and you are happy with how it looks and feel, cementation is done and you get to enjoy your new dental bridge.
