Dental Bridges
What are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge — a device used to replace missing teeth — attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. There are several kinds of dental bridges: they are either permanently attached (fixed bridges), or they can be removable. Each one of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing and in maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss does not necessarily have to occur as you age, but if you do lose teeth they should be replaced to maintain proper function of your mouth. Fortunately, there are options for patients with tooth loss. Dental bridges may be necessary to prevent:
- Shifting of the teeth that can lead to bite problems (occlusion) and/or jaw problems and resultant periodontal disease.
- Dental bridges safeguard the integrity of existing teeth and help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
Contact us to get started with dental bridges!
How Does a Dental Bridge Work?
The dental bridge procedure typically takes two or appointments to complete. At the first appointment we prepare the teeth for dental bridges on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin. Since the dental bridge must be fabricated very precisely to ensure correct bite and to match the opposing tooth, impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the bridge will be constructed. Fixed dental bridges are typically cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A false tooth replaces the lost tooth. Crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth, provide support for the bridge.
If you’re feeling self-conscious about your missing teeth, worry no more. Denison Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Newport News can help you regain your lost smile today with dental bridges!
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Offer a natural, healthy appearance
- Can be applied in only two office visits
- Are more permanent and secure than traditional dentures, with no sliding or moving
- Help regain natural speaking and chewing ability
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
- Colored to perfectly match the shade of your other teeth
