Dental Bridges

When you are missing a tooth, there are many options available to you for replacing it. If you are missing one or more teeth in a row, getting a dental bridge may be a good solution for you. Dental crowns are a very effective way of replacing one or more teeth, and they look just like your natural teeth so that no one can tell the difference.

Getting a Dental Bridge to Replace a Tooth

Dental bridges are made from at least two crowns and a bridge between them. This bridge is the area where one or more teeth are missing. The bridge is held in place by the crowns that are over your own natural teeth, or it can be anchored by dental implants. Getting a bridge is less invasive than getting dentures to replace teeth. This method does a great job of filling in a space that was left empty by missing teeth. Bridges are highly durable and can last a long time if they are cared for well.

It takes a few office visits to get a dental bridge made and installed. The teeth that will anchor the bridge have to be prepared to take on the crowns in the bridge. This involves making those anchor teeth smaller so that the crown will fit on top of them. The dentist will reduce the teeth for this precise fit of the crowns.

Then, a temporary bridge will be made so that you can wear it while the permanent bridge is created. At your next office visit, the permanent bridge is fitted to the teeth that will anchor it. The bridge is then assessed to make sure that it fits well and gives you the correct bite. Adjustments may be made at this time to make it fit perfectly.

When you have a dental bridge, it’s easy to care for. You need to brush and floss just as you do with your natural teeth. It may be necessary for you to clean under the bridge with a special flosser. The dentist will tell you how to care for your bridge, and our team can answer any questions and demonstrate its care.

Choosing a Dental Bridge

It can be tough to choose a way to replace your teeth, and there are many options. Dr. Harrington will be able to assess your teeth and the surrounding bone and tissue and can tell you whether getting a dental bridge is right for you. If you have been without one or more teeth for a while, you may not have enough bone for a dental implant. You may also want a faster solution than waiting the months it takes to get a dental implant. In these cases, getting a dental bridge may be a good choice.

A dental bridge is permanent, so many people want to choose this method instead of getting a partial denture. It’s a good idea to talk to the dentist about all of your options before you make your choice. Dr, Harrington can help you to make the best choice for your needs and preferences. When you need a tooth replacement method, call us at North Florida Dentistry to make your appointment for a consultation with the dentist.