1084 Main Street Holden, MA 01520
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic designed to replace missing teeth by filling the gaps between them. It uses the surrounding healthy teeth as anchors to support one or more replacement teeth. These supporting teeth are covered with crowns, while the artificial teeth are securely attached to complete your smile. Dental bridges not only restore the appearance of your smile but also prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting, which can lead to additional dental problems. With proper care, a dental bridge can provide long-lasting stability and help maintain your overall oral health.
Why Do I Need a Dental Bridge Treatment?
A dental bridge can significantly improve both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Missing teeth, especially in the back of the mouth, can cause a sunken appearance and contribute to an aged look. A bridge helps prevent this by providing support to your cheeks and lips, maintaining facial structure.
Furthermore, missing teeth can put additional strain on your gums and surrounding tissues, increasing the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. By filling in these gaps with a bridge, you help reduce these risks while preserving essential functions like chewing and speaking, which can be compromised by missing teeth.
Types of Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, each designed to address different needs:
Traditional Bridges: These bridges consist of a replacement tooth secured to two crowns, which are placed over the natural teeth adjacent to the gap.
Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges are anchored to dental implants rather than relying on natural teeth for support, offering a stable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth.
How Do Dental Bridges Work?
Preparation: Your dentist will carefully shape the abutment teeth (the healthy teeth on either side of the gap) to ensure a proper fit for the bridge. In some cases, the gum tissue may also be adjusted to optimize the bridge's placement and comfort.
Impression: A digital impression of your bite will be taken to create a bridge that fits seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
Fabrication: The impression is sent to a lab, where technicians craft a custom bridge using materials like porcelain, ceramics, and metal.
Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being made, a temporary bridge will be placed.
Final Fitting: After the permanent bridge is crafted, it will be carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure a comfortable, natural fit and shape. Once the final adjustments are made, the bridge will be securely cemented into place, completing your restoration.
Proper Care for Dental Bridges
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for ensuring the long-term success of your dental bridge. If your bridge relies on abutment teeth, extra attention is needed to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Brush regularly with a soft toothbrush and use the toothpaste recommended by your dentist to reduce plaque buildup and other oral health concerns. Proper care will not only prolong the lifespan of your bridge but also help you maintain optimal oral health.
At Khanani Family Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. A dental bridge can make a significant difference in both your oral health and appearance. To learn more about dental bridges in Barre, MA, contact us today at (508) 829-4575. Our team is here to answer your questions and schedule your consultation.