A dental bridge is a special type of dental restoration that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or any other reason, a dental bridge can help restore your smile and improve your ability to chew and speak. This treatment not only fills in the gap left by the missing tooth but also helps maintain the shape of your face and prevents surrounding teeth from shifting.
Dental bridges offer a practical solution for those with missing teeth. They restore function, improve your smile, and help maintain your facial structure. The process is straightforward and involves minimal discomfort. If you are considering a dental bridge, consult Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin to discuss your options and determine if it is the right choice for you. At Mallard Creek Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing you with the best care and helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge consists of two or more crowns on the teeth next to the gap, called abutment teeth, and a false tooth, known as a pontic, that fills the empty space. The crowns support the pontic and hold the bridge in place. Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal, which makes them durable and natural-looking.
Dental bridges come in different types, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bridges. Traditional bridges are the most common and involve placing crowns on both sides of the gap. Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge. Maryland bridges, on the other hand, use a framework that attaches to the back of the adjacent teeth, making them less invasive.
Why Choose a Dental Bridge?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to get a dental bridge. One of the main benefits is that a bridge restores your ability to chew and speak properly. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods and can change the way you pronounce words. A dental bridge can help you regain your confidence in social situations.
Another advantage of dental bridges is that they help maintain the shape of your face. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift, leading to changes in your bite and facial structure. A bridge helps keep your teeth in place, preventing this movement and maintaining your facial appearance.
Bridges also help distribute the forces in your bite properly. When you chew, the pressure should be evenly distributed across all your teeth. If you are missing a tooth, the teeth on either side of the gap can take on extra stress, which may lead to further dental problems over time. A bridge helps to restore balance to your bite.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
If you decide that a dental bridge is the right option for you, the process typically takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. This step is important because it allows the crowns to fit securely over the teeth.
Once the abutment teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth. These impressions help create a custom bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. While your permanent bridge is being made, you will receive a temporary bridge to wear. This temporary bridge protects your teeth and gums while you wait for your final restoration.
During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent bridge in your mouth. They will check to ensure it fits well and make any necessary adjustments. Once everything is perfect, the bridge will be permanently cemented in place. The entire procedure is designed to be comfortable, and most patients experience little to no pain.