
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.
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.
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.
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.
Here are a few tips for maintaining your bridge and prolonging its lifespan: