Bridges

Dental bridges are a fixed restorative solution used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, held in place by dental crowns attached to the adjacent teeth or implants. Bridges restore the appearance of your smile and maintain the shape of your face, prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position, and restore your ability to chew and speak properly.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are several types of dental bridges, each designed to cater to specific dental needs:

  • Traditional Bridges: The most common type, involving crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap with a pontic in between.
  • Cantilever Bridges: Used when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
  • Maryland Bridges: Consist of a pontic held in place by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of two adjacent teeth.
  • Implant-Supported Bridges: Supported by dental implants rather than crowns or frameworks. This type is often used when more than one tooth is missing.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

  • Restored Smile: Bridges fill the gaps in your smile and improve your appearance.
  • Improved Chewing and Speaking: Like natural teeth, they enable you to chew and speak correctly.
  • Maintained Facial Shape: Bridges prevent facial sagging by supporting the contours of your face.
  • Evenly Distributed Bite Forces: They help redistribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth.
  • Prevention of Teeth Shifting: Bridges prevent remaining teeth from moving out of position, which could lead to further dental issues.

The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

The procedure typically involves two or more visits:

  1. Preparation of Abutment Teeth: The adjacent teeth are prepared by recontouring to accommodate the crowns.
  2. Impressions: Impressions of your teeth are taken, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made.
  3. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is set to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
  4. Fitting the Permanent Bridge: During the follow-up visit, the temporary bridge was removed, and the new permanent bridge was adjusted and cemented.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Caring for a bridge involves maintaining proper oral hygiene, regular brushing, and flossing. It is important to clean under the pontic to prevent plaque build-up. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential to ensure the longevity of your bridge.

Our Expertise in Dental Bridges

Our dental practice offers comprehensive care in the fitting and placement of dental bridges. We ensure your bridge is functional and aesthetically pleasing, blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you have missing teeth and are considering a dental bridge, schedule a consultation with us. We are dedicated to restoring your smile and improving oral health with high-quality, custom-made dental bridges. Let us help you bridge the gap in your smile with a solution tailored to your needs.

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