Our experienced dentist can provide dental bridges to replace your missing teeth and give you back a beautiful smile. With a bridge, you can once again eat, speak and smile with confidence! Call Family Dental Center today at 302-656-8266 to set up your consultation with Dr. Benjamin Gilbert and learn more about dental bridges in Wilmington and Bear, Delaware.
Dental bridges are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth, designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Anchored to neighboring teeth or dental implants, bridges restore both functionality and aesthetics to your smile.
Process of Fitting a Dental Bridge:
- Preparation: The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth (abutments) are reshaped to accommodate the crowns that will anchor the bridge.
- Impressions: Accurate impressions of the prepared teeth and gap are taken to custom-manufacture a bridge that fits seamlessly.
- Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being made.
- Permanent Placement: The final bridge is carefully checked for fit and comfort before being permanently cemented into place.
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
- Functional Restoration: Bridges enable proper chewing and speaking by effectively replacing missing teeth.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: They are designed to match the natural color of your teeth, improving the overall appearance of your smile.
- Prevention of Dental Shifts: By filling the gap, bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, which could lead to bite issues and other orthodontic problems.
- Durability: With proper maintenance, dental bridges can last for many years, providing a long-term solution for missing teeth.
If you are considering a dental bridge or need more information about how bridges can benefit your dental health, contact our office today to arrange a consultation. We are dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with the right dental solutions.
FAQ
What is a dental bridge?
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A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally “bridging” the gap. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns (abutments) that are cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
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Caring for a dental bridge involves maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily, paying special attention to the area under the bridge to prevent plaque buildup. Using a special floss threader or interdental brush can help clean under the pontic. Regular dental checkups are also essential to ensure the longevity of your bridge.
How long do dental bridges last?
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With proper care, dental bridges can last between 5 to 15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits are crucial to prolong the life of your bridge and maintain overall oral health.
What are the benefits of getting a dental bridge?
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Dental bridges offer several benefits:
- Restores Function: Enables you to chew and speak properly.
- Improves Appearance: Fills gaps in your smile for a more natural look.
- Maintains Face Shape: Prevents the shifting of surrounding teeth and maintains the natural shape of your face.
- Distributes Bite Forces: Evenly distributes the forces in your bite when you chew.
What is the process for getting a dental bridge?
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The process for getting a dental bridge typically involves two visits. During the first visit, our dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. Impressions of your teeth will be taken to create a custom bridge. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth. During the second visit, the permanent bridge will be fitted, adjusted for proper bite and comfort, and then cemented in place.