Using dental bridges for smile restoration following tooth loss
Tooth extraction and tooth loss is an irreversible situation that is sometimes inevitable for some patients. At Cooper Dental Group of Ormond Beach, Florida, we understand that tooth loss may occur during one’s lifetime. However, after these situations, many patients are confused about the best way to restore their smile’s appearance, function, and health. Our experienced dentists can help patients determine if solutions such as dental bridges are appropriate for their unique needs.
What is a dental bridge?
Our dentists describe the dental bridge as a restoration used to replace one or several teeth in a row in the dental arch. These restorations are often made of porcelain and include false teeth fused to dental crowns on each side. One or many teeth can be replaced using this long-lasting restoration.
What is the process of receiving a dental bridge?
At Cooper Dental Group, our priority is always the comfort of our patients. We achieve this by performing a thorough consultation and examination before beginning any treatment. This ensures that we develop a personalized treatment plan that meets each patient’s unique needs, goals, and budget.
The dental bridge process begins with your dentist preparing the teeth on either side of the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. Once these teeth are prepped, impressions will be made to obtain the necessary dental crowns and false teeth for your individualized dental bridge. Sometimes, a temporary dental restoration may be placed while your permanent restoration is fabricated.
Once your permanent bridge is complete within a few weeks, you will return to our office for a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, we will ensure that your restoration fits comfortably and functions properly before permanently bonding it.
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Schedule a visit with our caring team at Cooper Dental Group and achieve your best smile.
What is a dental bridge?
Our dentists describe the dental bridge as a restoration used to replace one or several teeth in a row in the dental arch. These restorations are often made of porcelain and include false teeth fused to dental crowns on each side. One or many teeth can be replaced using this long-lasting restoration.
What is the process of receiving a dental bridge?
At Cooper Dental Group, our priority is always the comfort of our patients. We achieve this by performing a thorough consultation and examination before beginning any treatment. This ensures that we develop a personalized treatment plan that meets each patient’s unique needs, goals, and budget.
The dental bridge process begins with your dentist preparing the teeth on either side of the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. Once these teeth are prepped, impressions will be made to obtain the necessary dental crowns and false teeth for your individualized dental bridge. Sometimes, a temporary dental restoration may be placed while your permanent restoration is fabricated.
Once your permanent bridge is complete within a few weeks, you will return to our office for a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, we will ensure that your restoration fits comfortably and functions properly before permanently bonding it.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How does a dental bridge affect neighboring teeth?
A traditional dental bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support, requiring them to be reshaped to accommodate crowns. This stabilizes the bridge but removes some natural tooth structure. Over time, the pressure on these teeth may cause wear or increased sensitivity. Alternatives, like implant-supported bridges, avoid altering adjacent teeth. Regular dental checkups help monitor the supporting teeth’s health, ensuring they stay strong. Proper oral hygiene, including flossing beneath the bridge, reduces the risk of decay or gum disease, preserving their function and longevity.
Can a dental bridge improve speech clarity?
Missing teeth can create gaps that affect speech, making some words hard to pronounce. A dental bridge fills these gaps, improving articulation and speech clarity. Initially, patients may need a short adjustment period to get used to the bridge. Practicing pronunciation or reading aloud can help speed up this transition. If the bridge feels bulky or affects speech, a dentist can make minor adjustments for comfort. Over time, most patients find speaking becomes more natural with a well-fitted bridge.
How long does it take to adjust to a new dental bridge?
Most patients adjust to a dental bridge within a few weeks. Initially, the bridge may feel bulky, and chewing may require practice. Eating soft foods and gradually adding harder textures helps ease the transition. Mild sensitivity in supporting teeth typically subsides within a few days. Flossing under the bridge may initially feel awkward, but floss threaders or water flossers make it easier. A dentist should address any persistent discomfort or misalignment to ensure a proper fit and long-term comfort.
Are dental bridges a permanent solution for missing teeth?
Dental bridges are long-lasting but not permanent. With proper care, they typically last ten to fifteen years. Over time, wear, gum recession, or decay in supporting teeth may require repair or replacement. Regular dental visits help detect early signs of wear for timely maintenance. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing around the bridge, can extend lifespan. Implant-supported bridges tend to last longer, as they don’t rely on natural teeth and help preserve the jawbone structure.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, but some adjustments are necessary at first. Initially, patients should stick to soft foods and gradually reintroduce harder textures. Most foods can be eaten normally, but limit extremely hard, sticky, or chewy foods to prevent excessive stress on the bridge. Chewing with both sides of the mouth distribute pressure evenly, avoiding strain on supporting teeth. Proper oral hygiene is crucial to prevent food from getting trapped under the bridge, which could lead to decay or gum inflammation.
How do I clean a dental bridge?
Cleaning a dental bridge requires slightly more effort than natural teeth, as food particles can get trapped beneath it. Using a floss threader or water flosser is essential for cleaning under and around the bridge. Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush prevents plaque buildup on the crowns and surrounding teeth. Antibacterial mouthwash can help keep the area free of bacteria. Regular dental visits allow for professional cleanings and adjustments if necessary. Without proper hygiene, plaque accumulation can lead to gum disease, which may compromise the bridge’s stability and the health of supporting teeth.
Do dental bridges prevent bone loss in the jaw?
Traditional dental bridges do not prevent jawbone loss because they rest on the gums and do not stimulate the bone. When teeth are missing, the jawbone gradually deteriorates due to a lack of stimulation. Implant-supported bridges offer a better solution for bone preservation, as the implants act like tooth roots, maintaining bone density. Patients concerned about long-term bone health should discuss implant options with their dentist. Even with a traditional bridge, keeping gums healthy and regular checkups can help slow the progression of bone loss and keep the surrounding teeth and tissues strong.
Schedule a visit with the team at Cooper Dental Group!
Our team in Ormond Beach, FL, regularly works with patients who have experienced tooth extraction or loss and help them find a solution that best meets their needs. If you are ready for a positive experience at the dentist, visit our practice today! Call 386-244-9838 to request a visit at 1275 W Granada Blvd Suite 1. Ormond Beach, FL.
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
