Restore Your Oral Health With a Dental Bridge
Dental bridges are designed to bridge the gap between missing teeth. If you’re missing one tooth, or several teeth in a sequence, we can fill in the gap with a dental bridge. During your initial consultation, Dr. Hausten will examine your teeth and gums and create a customized treatment plan to restore your oral health.
A dental bridge consists of one or more replacement teeth called pontics. Pontics are typically made of porcelain to blend seamlessly with your smile. They’re held in place by your surrounding natural teeth or dental implants to provide support to the dental bridge.
We offer a variety of dental bridges to fit your individual needs. The type of bridge we’ll use depends on the location and number of teeth that you’re missing. When your smile’s complete you won’t hesitate to show it off.
The Benefits of a Dental Bridge
Dental bridges provide more support and stability than dentures without the costly surgeries associated with dental implants. In addition to replacing missing teeth, dental bridges offer several benefits. With a dental bridge, you can:
- Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting into place
- Allow for proper distribution of chewing forces
- Maintain the shape of your face and avoid a sunken appearance
- Improve the ability to eat and speak
- Restore your bite
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Prior to beginning your dental bridge procedure, Dr. Hausten will numb your teeth and gums so you won’t feel a thing. The process is simple and can be completed in a few steps:
- Anchor teeth will be shaped and prepared for dental crowns
- Impressions will be made and sent to the lab
- When your restoration is ready, you’ll come in for your second appointment where we’ll make any final adjustments to ensure the shape, size, and color of your bridge match the aesthetics of your natural smile
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental bridge lasts anywhere from five to 15 years, depending on a variety of factors such as your oral hygiene habits and how much wear and tear you place on your restoration. To properly care for your dental bridge, you’ll want to brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and visit our office for regular checkups and cleanings.
Dr. Hausten will examine your bridge during your regular appointments and make adjustments or repairs as needed. She’ll also let you know when it’s time for your bridge to be replaced so you won’t have to go a day without a complete smile.
While dental bridges and dental implants are both effective tooth replacement options, their procedures are very different and appeal to different needs. A dental bridge is designed to bridge the gap left by a missing tooth. Bridges are less invasive and more affordable than dental implants because they don’t require surgery.
Your adjacent teeth are prepared and fitted for crowns to reinforce the strength of the dental bridge. Dental implants, on the other hand, are a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. That’s because implants are surgically affixed to your jawbone and therefore can last a lifetime. It typically takes six months to heal from the surgery before your restoration is placed.
To learn more about tooth replacement options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hausten by calling (630) 653-3440. We’ll discuss your smile goals and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
It’s extremely rare that a dental bridge will fall out. They’re rigid structures that are well-supported. While they may become loose over time, Dr. Hausten can easily tighten them during a checkup.
If your dental bridge feels loose, or in the event that it falls out, contact us immediately by calling (630) 653-3440. We’ll get you in to see Dr. Hausten as soon as possible. In the meantime, it’s important to avoid fixing the bridge yourself or trying to re-adhere it. Doing so could damage the restoration.
A bridge can replace one to four teeth, as long as there are enough natural teeth to support the bridge. If not, dental implants can be strategically placed for added reinforcement to the dental bridge. There are also various types of bridges that can address different areas of missing teeth.
If you’re interested in learning more about how dental bridges can benefit you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hausten by calling (630) 653-3440. During the consultation, she’ll review your oral health and discuss your treatment options so you can make an informed decision.
Confident Smiles for Years to Come With A Dental Bridge
Dental bridges can restore the function and beauty of your smile. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hausten by calling (630) 653-3440 or fill out a contact form and we’ll get back to you. With a dental bridge, you can enjoy the confidence that comes with a complete smile.
