Our dental bridges in Millersville serve as a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. They not only restore your smile but also improve the functionality of your teeth. Missing teeth can lead to several issues, including bite problems, difficulty chewing, and even speech changes. Dental bridges address these challenges effectively, providing aesthetic and practical patient benefits.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges fill the gaps left behind by missing teeth. The bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, held in place by crowns on the natural teeth or dental implants adjoining the gap. Dentists custom-design bridges to match your natural teeth’s color, shape, and size, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.
There are several options for dental bridges, including traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges. We can recommend the most suitable type based on the location of the missing tooth and the condition of the surrounding teeth.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages for patients struggling with missing teeth. These benefits include:
- Restored Functionality: Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew or speak properly. A well-fitted dental bridge ensures proper function, allowing you to eat and communicate comfortably.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Missing teeth may cause self-consciousness about your appearance. Dental bridges effectively restore your smile, boosting your confidence.
- Prevention of Teeth Shifting: When a gap remains in your mouth, surrounding teeth may shift over time, creating misalignment. Dental bridges prevent this issue by filling the space and maintaining proper spacing between teeth.
- Improved Oral Health: Gaps in teeth often increase the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease. Filling these spaces with dental bridges helps preserve oral health by discouraging harmful bacteria accumulation.
- Durability and Longevity: Dental bridges, when cared for properly, function effectively for many years. Their sturdy design ensures they handle daily wear and tear, providing lasting results.
How Do We Place Dental Bridges?
The process for placing a dental bridge involves two to three visits. During the first appointment, we will prepare the abutment teeth (the teeth near the gap) by removing a portion of the enamel. We then take an impression of your teeth to create a custom-fit bridge. While waiting for the permanent bridge, we can place a temporary one to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Once your permanent bridge arrives, we will remove the temporary bridge and fit the new one. We ensure comfort and precision by adjusting the fit before cementing the bridge. With proper alignment, the dental bridge provides a natural look and feel.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Maintaining your dental bridge involves regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits. Proper oral hygiene prevents decay in the abutment teeth, ensuring the bridge’s longevity. We may recommend special flossing tools to clean under the bridge effectively. Combine this with a balanced diet and good oral habits to protect your investment.
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools, as these actions can damage your bridge. If issues arise, such as looseness or discomfort, consult your dentist promptly for repair or adjustment.
Who Should Consider Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges work best for individuals with one or more missing teeth, but have healthy adjacent teeth or implants to support the bridge. We evaluate your oral health and discuss options during your consultation. If you wish to restore your smile, regain proper dental function, and protect neighboring teeth from shifting, dental bridges may be your ideal choice.
Trust Dr. Brian D. Valle, P.A.
At Dr. Brian D. Valle, P.A., we understand the importance of a healthy and beautiful smile. Our team uses advanced techniques, materials, and technology to create dental bridges in Millersville that deliver comfort, reliability, and aesthetics. Whether you need to replace a single or multiple teeth, we tailor our approach to meet your needs. Our other restorative dentistry solutions include everything from root canal therapy to dental implants.
Explore Dental Bridges in Millersville, MD Today
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Valle. Restore your smile and improve your dental health with the unparalleled expertise at Dr. Brian D. Valle, P.A.!