At Alan Wilson Dentistry, we know how important a healthy, complete smile is to your confidence and well-being. Dental bridges offer a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, seamlessly blending with your natural ones to restore both the look and function of your smile. More than just cosmetic, dental bridges help maintain oral health by preventing further complications.
Restore your smile with a custom dental bridge
A dental bridge uses artificial teeth, called pontics, to fill the gap left by missing teeth. These pontics are anchored by crowns placed on the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap, providing stability and a secure fit.
Replacing missing teeth with a bridge does more than enhance your appearance. It restores your ability to chew and speak properly, preventing nearby teeth from shifting, which could lead to misalignment and bite issues. By maintaining proper tooth positioning, a bridge supports your overall oral health, including the health of your jawbone.
Depending on your situation, different types of dental bridges are available. The most common is a traditional bridge, which uses crowns on adjacent teeth. For those with fewer natural teeth, a cantilever or implant-supported bridge may be the best option.
At Alan Wilson Dentistry, we use advanced technology to craft dental bridges that look and feel natural. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable experience and a lasting solution. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and restore your smile with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
The process of getting a dental bridge can differ based on whether you opt for a traditional bridge or an implant-supported one. Here’s an overview of what to expect for both types:
For a traditional dental bridge, the journey begins with an initial consultation and a thorough examination to assess your oral health and determine the best option. If a traditional bridge is suitable, the next step involves preparing the abutment teeth—these are the teeth on either side of the gap that will support the bridge. The dentist reshapes these teeth to create space for the crowns that will anchor the bridge.
After the teeth are prepared, impressions are taken to create a custom bridge. While your permanent bridge is being made in a dental lab, you will receive a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums. Once the permanent bridge is ready, typically after a couple of weeks, you’ll return to have it fitted. The dentist ensures it fits securely and comfortably before cementing it in place.
For an implant-supported bridge, the process starts with an examination to evaluate if you are a candidate for implants. This includes assessing your jawbone density. If you qualify, small titanium implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as the roots of the missing teeth. These implants need time to heal and fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration, which can take several months.
Once healed, abutments (connectors) are attached to the implants, and impressions are taken to craft the custom bridge. After the bridge is fabricated in a dental lab, it is fitted and secured to the implants, providing a stable and long-lasting restoration.
Whether you choose a traditional or implant-supported bridge, the process involves multiple appointments over a few weeks or months. The result is a natural-looking, functional restoration that improves your ability to eat and speak comfortably, while enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.
With proper care and good oral hygiene, dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are important to ensure the longevity of your bridge. The lifespan of the bridge also depends on factors like the materials used and how well you maintain the health of the supporting teeth or implants.
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily, especially around the bridge and supporting teeth to prevent plaque build-up. You should also avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. Regular dental visits are essential to monitor the health of your bridge and the surrounding teeth or implants.
