A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two dental crowns on either side, called abutments, and artificial teeth in between, known as pontics, that “bridges” the gap in your smile. The purpose of a dental bridge is not only to restore your smile but also to improve your ability to bite and chew properly.
The Procedure: What to Expect
When it comes to getting a dental bridge, it's natural to have some questions and concerns about the procedure. First, our Port Charlotte dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine if a dental bridge is the right solution for you. They may also take X-rays or impressions of your mouth to create an accurate model for the fabrication of the bridge.
Next, the process begins by preparing the abutment teeth. These are the teeth on either side of the gap where your missing tooth or teeth used to be. The dentist will shape these teeth by removing a small portion of their enamel. This is necessary as it provides room for placing crowns over them. Once the abutment teeth are prepared, impressions are taken again so that they can be sent off to a dental laboratory where your custom bridge will be fabricated. In the meantime, temporary crowns or bridges may be placed to protect your exposed teeth and gums.
During your next visit, the temporary restoration will be removed and replaced with your permanent dental bridge. The dentist will carefully check its fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently cementing it into place.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for replacing missing teeth:
- One of the main advantages is improved appearance. A dental bridge not only fills in the gap left by a missing tooth, but it also restores your smile and gives you a more natural-looking appearance.
- Another advantage is improved speech. Missing teeth can affect your ability to pronounce certain words correctly, causing difficulties in speech. By filling in the gap with a dental bridge, you can regain proper pronunciation and speak with confidence.
- In addition to aesthetics and speech improvement, dental bridges also help maintain the structure of your face. When you lose a tooth, it can cause your facial muscles to sag or droop over time. Dental bridges provide support and prevent this from happening, preserving your facial contours.
- Moreover, dental bridges restore functionality to your mouth by allowing you to chew properly again. With missing teeth, chewing certain foods becomes challenging and uncomfortable. But with a dental bridge in place, you can enjoy all types of food without any restrictions.
- Getting a dental bridge is generally less invasive than other tooth replacement options, such as implants or dentures. The procedure is relatively straightforward and requires minimal recovery time.
Don't let missing teeth hold you back from living life confidently. Explore the possibility of getting a dental bridge today! Book an online appointment or call us at (941) 624-4575 to consult with our dentist in Port Charlotte, FL. You can also visit us at 4120 Tamiami Trail Suite A, Port Charlotte, FL 33952.