What Is A Dental Bridge?
Here’s everything you need to know about dental bridges in Lakewood, Colorado.
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is designed to bridge the gap created by the missing teeth and restore functionality and aesthetics to the smile. The bridge is made up of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. These pontics are held in place by dental crowns that are cemented onto the adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants.
Dental bridges offer several benefits:
Bridges are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of metal and porcelain to provide durability and a natural-looking appearance. With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last for a decade or more, providing a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.
When You Might Need a Dental Bridge in Lakewood, CO
Here are the reasons you might need a dental bridge at your next dental visit
The most common reasons for recommending a dental bridge are as follows:
What Happens During a Dental Bridge Procedure?
Most Lakewood, Colorado dentists will follow these steps.
At our dental clinic in Lakewood, Colorado, getting a dental bridge usually involves a few visits to the office. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth (adjacent teeth that will support the bridge), take impressions, and place a temporary bridge. In the subsequent visit(s), the permanent bridge is fabricated and cemented in place.
FAQs About Dental Bridges In Lakewood, Colorado
These are the most common questions we get about dental bridges in Lakewood, Colorado.
You may need a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth. Bridges help restore your ability to chew and speak properly, maintain facial shape, prevent remaining teeth from shifting, and improve your smile.
With proper care and oral hygiene, dental bridges can last for 10 to 15 years or even longer. However, their lifespan can vary depending on various factors, such as oral hygiene practices, regular dental check-ups, and the overall health of the supporting teeth and gums.
The procedure itself is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you won't feel any pain during the preparation of the abutment teeth or the placement of the bridge. However, you may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area after the anesthesia wears off. Over-the-counter pain relievers can usually alleviate any post-treatment discomfort.
To maintain the longevity of your dental bridge, it's essential to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups are also necessary to ensure the bridge and supporting teeth are in good condition.
Yes, you should be able to eat a variety of foods with a dental bridge. However, it's advisable to avoid excessively hard or sticky foods that may put excessive stress on the bridge. Your dentist can provide specific dietary recommendations based on your individual case.
In some cases, a damaged dental bridge can be repaired; however, the extent of the damage will determine whether a repair is possible. It's important to consult your dentist if you notice any issues with your bridge, such as a loose crown or a crack in the pontic.
Learn More About Dental Bridges In Lakewood, Colorado
For additional reading about dental cleanings and restorative dentistry services, check out our restorative dentistry resources:
We’re Not Just Tooth Doctors.
We look at your whole health.
Welcome to Fox Point Dental, located in Lakewood, Colorado. Our dental practice embraces a holistic approach, prioritizing the overall health of our patients. As functional dentists, we go beyond the surface and delve into the root causes of dental issues, ensuring durable solutions.
While maintaining good oral hygiene through practices like brushing, flossing, mouthwash, and regular cleanings is crucial, they may not always address the underlying reasons for problems such as tooth decay, misaligned teeth, and bad breath. These issues can often be traced back to airway obstructions, overcrowding in the mouth, and narrow dental arches resulting from habits like mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
By focusing on functional dentistry, we aim to identify and resolve the core sources of dental problems, thereby preventing future issues and enhancing your overall quality of life. Our mission is to help you and your loved ones regain the confidence to smile, breathe effortlessly, and enjoy improved well-being. We offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, ranging from preventive cleanings to advanced procedures.
