Are you missing one or more teeth? What would it feel like to have a full, healthy smile again? Dental bridges are a common and effective way to restore your smile. But what are dental bridges? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about it from the team at NewStart Denture + Implant Partners.

Call us at 919.822.9154 to learn more about Raleigh, North Carolina dental bridges.

Dental Bridge Definition

It’s important to first understand what the dental bridge definition actually is. Dental bridges are false teeth, also called pontics, that are held in place by dental crowns. The dental crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. This is what “bridges” the gap. Dental bridges can be made from a variety of materials, but porcelain is the most popular because it looks the most like natural teeth.

What Is a Dental Bridge Experience?

Now that you know “what are dental bridges,” it’s time to learn more about the dental bridge experience. The first step is to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, the dentist will take X-rays and examine your mouth to make sure that dental bridges are the right solution for you. If they are, the next step is to prepare the teeth on either side of the gap for the dental crowns. This involves removing some of the enamel so that the crowns can be placed.

After the teeth are prepared, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth so that the dental bridges can be custom-made for you. While you wait for your bridges to be made, temporary bridges will be placed.

Once the bridge is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent one. The crowns will be placed on either side of the gap, and the pontic will be fused in between.

Your dentist will then adjust the bridge to make sure it fits properly and that you can bite and chew comfortably.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are usually recommended for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease. Losing a tooth can cause your other teeth to shift, which can lead to problems with biting and chewing. It can also affect your speech.

A dental bridge can help to restore your smile and make it easier to eat and speak. It can also help to prevent your other teeth from shifting out of place. There are four main types of dental bridges:

• Traditional fixed bridge – This type of bridge is made up of two dental crowns that are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a pontic in between. The pontic is usually made of porcelain, gold, or a combination of the two.
• Cantilever bridge – A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional fixed bridge, but it only has one dental crown. The dental crown is placed on the tooth next to the gap, and the pontic extends over the gap.
• Maryland bridge – A Maryland bridge is made of a pontic and two metal bands that are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. The pontics are usually made of porcelain.
• Implant-supported bridge – An implant-supported bridge is made up of one or more dental implants that are placed in the jawbone, with a pontic on top. The pontic can be made of porcelain, gold, or a combination of the two.

Make sure to take care of your dental bridge by brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. With proper care, your dental bridge can last for many years.

Discover the Benefits of Dental Bridges in Raleigh, North Carolina at NewStart Denture + Implant Partners

If you are considering dental bridges in Raleigh, North Carolina, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team at NewStart Denture + Implant Partners. We offer real solutions for real budgets. Call us at 919.822.9154 to learn more.