Having one or more missing teeth can have a serious effect not only on your smile, but also on your dental health. Specifically, missing teeth can cause:

• A shift in the alignment of your teeth
• Pain in the facial muscles/jaws due to an improper bite
• Increased risk of tooth decay
• Loss of adjacent teeth
• Difficulty with speech
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Loss of confidence because of appearance change

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap — these two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth — and a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth are called pontics and can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.

Why a Bridge

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

Dental bridges (also called partial dentures) have several benefits. A dental bridge may help you chew your food easily and speak more clearly. From a cosmetic point of view, your smile may look healthier and more attractive with a bridge in place than with gaps in your teeth. A dental bridge can also help to maintain the natural shape of your face. Without a bridge, your other teeth can slowly shift out of their natural position, leading to potential future problems with your bite. Also, a dental bridge can make your bite more equal across all your teeth, helping you to distribute the force of your bite more equally when you eat.

What is the procedure to get a dental bridge?

Two appointments will be needed for your bridge.  At your first appointment we will take impressions and prepare teeth for the bridge by removing tooth decay and shaping the tooth.

Dental bridges can last from 8 to 15 years and can last even longer if you maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

To find out  more about our approach to dental care, contact us to schedule an appointment!

Post Op Instructions After the Procedure