A dental bridge is a permanent partial denture, much like a dental implant, that is used to replace missing teeth. A dental bridge is used when a missing tooth must be replaced, since missing a tooth can cause a variety of problems and affect the appearance of your smile. Missing teeth can result in a change in bite, shifting of teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), speech impediments, an increased risk of periodontal disease, and tooth decay.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, dental bridges offer an effective and natural-looking solution to restore your smile. At Tomalty Dental Care, we provide custom-made dental bridges to help you regain both the function and appearance of your teeth.
Dental bridges provide a range of benefits for patients with missing teeth, including:
Dental bridges make it easier to chew and speak properly by filling in the gap left by missing teeth.
Bridges blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring the appearance of a full smile.
Missing teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift out of place. A dental bridge helps maintain your dental alignment.
Replacing missing teeth can enhance your appearance and self-esteem, giving you the confidence to smile freely again.
A dental bridge is a permanent partial denture, much like a dental implant, that is used to replace missing teeth. There are a variety of fixed dental bridges, including:
Conventional and cantilever bridges require shaping of the teeth that surround the missing tooth. A dental crown is then placed on shaped teeth and an artificial tooth is connected to them for support. This is known as a pontic.
Dental bridges are usually performed in two visits; during the first visit the patient’s teeth are examined. Once it is determined that they will receive a dental bridge, a local anesthetic will be given in order to prepare the teeth that will support the dental bridge. After preparation of the teeth is complete, a mold is taken of them in order to design a dental bridge that has a natural and secure fit. Without a secure fit the teeth under the bridge supports can suffer from decay because they are nearly impossible to clean with the bridge in place. Until the permanent bridge is completed, your dentist will fit you with a temporary dental bridge so the teeth and gums can be protected from damage.
To complete the dental bridge procedure, you must return to the dental office for a second visit to have the bridge fitted and cemented in place. After the dental bridge is correctly fitted and the bite is perfect, the dentist will take further impressions to ensure that the bite is natural and does not cause any pain or discomfort during your bite. Your dentist will also ensure that the shade is the same as your natural teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile that will boost your confidence.
Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile—they can impact your ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper oral health. At Tomalty Dental Care, we offer dental bridges as an effective solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile’s function and appearance.
If you’re ready to restore your smile and improve your oral health with a dental bridge, contact Tomalty Dental Care today and schedule a consultation. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and provide a personalized treatment plan to give you a beautiful, functional smile that lasts.