Dental Bridges – Indian Land, SC
Filling the Gaps in Your Grin
When you’re missing several teeth in a row, whether that be due to trauma, decay, or gum disease, it can really take a toll on your life. Speaking, eating, and feeling confident in your smile become nearly impossible feats. You’re more at risk for losing even more teeth because your jawbone shrinks when you’re missing teeth. The teeth you do have left may start to shift around in your mouth. Fortunately, we here at BridgeMill Dental Care offer plenty of options for replacing missing teeth, one of which is dental bridges. If you’re ready to finally fill the space in your smile, keep reading about bridges below, or contact us to learn more.
Why Choose BridgeMill Dental Care for Dental Bridges?
- Replace One to Several Consecutive Missing Teeth
- Lifelike Materials Used to Create Restorations
- Relaxing Dental Office with Sedation and TVs for Comfort
What Are Dental Bridges?
Bridges consist of three different parts. The two prosthetic teeth on either end of the bridge are dental crowns, which are placed on top of your remaining natural teeth surrounding the gap in your smile. Between the two crowns (also known as abutment teeth) lies one or more false teeth called pontics. Each section of your bridge will be made from lifelike dental porcelain. This material is not only incredibly durable, but it also perfectly resembles natural tooth enamel, right down to the way light bounces off of it.
Am I a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
As long as you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth, you may benefit from a dental bridge in Indian Land. Bridges are an especially great option for patients who, for one reason or another, may not be great candidates for dental implants. We do ask, though, that your mouth be infection-free before we place a bridge. That means that if we detect any cavities or instances of gum disease, that we treat those issues before you can receive your new teeth.
What Is the Process of Getting a Bridge?
The process of creating and placing a bridge is actually pretty similar to that of a dental crown. After your consultation with Dr. Candon to determine that a bridge is the right treatment for you, plan on making two more trips to our office to receive your bridge.
During the first of these appointments, the abutment teeth will be filed down to make room to place the crowns. Then, we’ll take an impression of the area. That data will be sent off to a dental lab, where your bridge will be crafted. While that is being taken care of, we’ll place a temporary bridge to protect your gums and teeth in the meantime.
A few weeks later, you’ll return for your second appointment. Your temporary will be removed and replaced with your permanent bridge. Before bonding the bridge in place, we’ll make sure it fits correctly within your bite and make any adjustments if need be. Once the bridge is permanently placed in your mouth, it should last anywhere from 10 to 15 years before it needs to be replaced with a new one.
How Do I Take Care of My Bridge?
Here are a few tips for maintaining your bridge and prolonging its lifespan:
- Brush your teeth and bridge with a fluoridated toothpaste at least twice daily.
- Floss at least once a day. Make sure to thread the floss underneath your pontics, since food and plaque deposits can easily build up in these areas.
- Visit Dr. Candon for a checkup and cleaning every six months.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Eat a diet rich in fresh fruits and dark leafy greens.