Dental bridges are a popular and trusted solution for replacing missing teeth. These dental bridges span the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They consist of two main components: the abutment teeth and the pontic.
The abutment teeth act as anchors on either side of the gap, holding the bridge firmly in place. These teeth are prepared by removing a small portion of enamel to make room for crowns, which will later support the bridge. The pontic is essentially a false tooth that fills in the empty space, restoring both function and aesthetics to your smile.
Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge
If you're considering getting a dental bridge, it's important to understand the procedure involved. The process typically involves several steps and may require multiple visits to your dentist.
- First, our dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a dental bridge. They will then create an impression of your mouth, which will be used as a mold for creating the bridge.
- Next, any necessary preparations will be made. This may involve reshaping some of the adjacent teeth that will serve as support for the bridge. In some cases, additional treatments such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction may be required.
- Once the preparations are complete, temporary crowns or bridges may be placed on the prepared teeth while waiting for the permanent bridge to be fabricated in a dental laboratory. This usually takes about two weeks.
- During your next visit, the temporary restoration is removed and replaced with a permanent dental bridge. The dentist will ensure that it fits properly and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it into place.
Aftercare instructions will be provided by our dentist to help maintain proper oral hygiene and care for your new dental bridge. Regular check-ups with our dentist are also essential to monitor its condition and address any issues that may arise.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- One of the main benefits of dental bridges is that they can restore your smile and improve your self-confidence. Missing teeth can cause embarrassment and make you hesitant to smile or speak in public. By filling in the gaps, dental bridges give you a complete set of teeth again, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident.
- Another advantage of dental bridges is that they help maintain the shape and structure of your face. When you have missing teeth, it can lead to sagging facial muscles and a sunken appearance. Dental bridges provide support for your cheeks and lips, preventing this from happening and helping you maintain a more youthful look.
- Dental bridges also play an important role in maintaining proper oral health. When there are empty spaces left by missing teeth, the surrounding teeth may shift or rotate into those gaps, causing misalignment issues. Filling in these spaces with dental bridges helps keep your remaining natural teeth aligned properly.
- In addition to these functional benefits, dental bridges also enhance your ability to chew food properly. With missing teeth, it becomes challenging to eat certain foods like meats or crunchy fruits and vegetables. Dental bridges restore full chewing function so that you can enjoy all types of foods without any discomfort or limitations.
If you're considering tooth replacement options for missing teeth, consult with our dentist, who specializes in prosthodontics, to discuss whether dental bridges could be the right solution for you!
To learn more about our dental bridges, visit our dentist, Dr. Little, at 4455 Sw Scholls Ferry Rd Suite 101, Portland, Oregon, 97225. You can also reach Dentist Portland, OR, at (503) 291-0000 or (503) 292-6677 to schedule an appointment.
