Bridges

At Legacy Dental Care, we believe that every smile tells a story. Missing teeth can interrupt that story, affecting your confidence, oral health, and daily life. Our expert team is here to help you ‘bridge’ those gaps with state-of-the-art dental bridges.

What are dental bridges?

Dental bridges are permanent prosthetic devices that connect the space left by one or more missing teeth. A bridge involves two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap—these support teeth are called abutment teeth—and one or more artificial teeth in between, known as pontics.

When are dental bridges necessary?

Dental bridges are excellent for patients with one or more missing teeth. They are necessary when:

• Missing Teeth: To fill the gap left by missing teeth and circumvent the shifting of the nearby teeth.
• Restoring Function: To restore the ability to chew and speak properly.
• Preventing Bone Loss: To maintain the shape of your face and prevent bone loss associated with missing teeth.
• Improving Appearance: To restore your smile and improve your overall appearance. 

What does the dental bridge process entail?

The process of getting a dental bridge normally involves two to three visits to Legacy Dental Care:

First Visit: Examination and Preparation 

1. Consultation: Your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss the best type of bridge for your needs.
2. Preparation: The abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to allow enough space for a crown to be placed over them.
3. Impression: An impression of your teeth is done to create a custom-fit bridge. This impression is sent to a dental lab to create the bridge.
4. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge may be inserted to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent bridge is ready.

Second Visit: Fitting and Placement

1. Fitting: The temporary bridge is removed, and the new permanent bridge is checked and adjusted for a proper fit.
2. Cementation: Once the fit is perfect, the bridge is permanently cemented into place. Your dentist will ensure it blends naturally with your smile and functions comfortably. 

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

Dental bridges offer numerous benefits, including:

• Restored Function: Bridges restore your ability to chew and speak effectively. 
• Aesthetic Improvement: They provide a natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth, enhancing your smile.
• Preventing Shifting: Bridges prevent adjacent teeth from moving out of position, maintaining the alignment of your teeth.
• Long-Lasting: With proper care, dental bridges are durable and can last many years.

How do I care for my bridges?

It is important to maintain proper care and maintenance so the longevity and functionality of your dental bridge are preserved. Here are some tips:

• Healthy Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Special floss threaders can help clean under and around the bridge. 
• Routine Dental Visits: Visit your dentist regularly for examinations and professional cleanings to ensure your bridge remains in good condition.
• Healthy Diet: Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the bridge. Eating a balanced diet supports overall oral health. 
• Avoid Bad Habits: Avoid habits such as chewing ice or using your teeth as tools, as these can harm your bridge and natural teeth. 

Dental bridges are the perfect solution for replacing missing teeth and reviving your smile’s function and appearance. If you think you might benefit from a dental bridge, schedule a consultation with Legacy Dental Care today.