A dental bridge is a restorative dental treatment that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are held in place by dental crowns on either side. The dental bridge is custom-made to fit seamlessly into your mouth, restoring both the function and appearance of your smile.
During your initial visit to Skylyn Dental Associates, your Spartanburg dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your oral health. Utilizing advanced technology, he assesses your teeth and gums, taking X-rays and impressions. This detailed evaluation guides the decision on whether a dental bridge is the right solution for you. Your concerns are addressed, ensuring clarity about the proposed treatment plan.
Once the abutment teeth are prepared, Dr. Gibas will take detailed impressions of your teeth. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory where your custom dental bridge will be fabricated. In the meantime, a temporary bridge will be placed to protect your teeth and maintain their alignment.
Adjacent teeth, the abutments, are carefully reshaped to create space for dental crowns. A minimal amount of enamel is removed, painlessly done under local anesthesia. This precise preparation ensures a snug fit for the crowns, which is crucial for the bridge's stability and longevity.
After the temporary bridge is placed, it's essential to follow specific care guidelines. Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge the temporary bridge. When brushing and flossing, do so gently around the bridge area to prevent damage. If the temporary bridge feels loose or uncomfortable, contact Skylyn Dental Associates promptly for adjustments.
Restore Chewing Function
One of the primary benefits of dental bridges is the ability to chew with ease. Missing teeth can make it difficult to bite and chew properly, leading to nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues. With a dental bridge, you can enjoy your favorite foods without any discomfort or restrictions.
Enhance Your Smile
A dental bridge can dramatically enhance your smile by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth. The pontics are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and natural-looking smile. You can regain your confidence and feel proud to show off your smile once again.
Improve Your Oral Health
When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth can shift and become misaligned over time. This can lead to bite problems, jaw pain, and an increased risk of gum disease. By filling the gap with a dental bridge, you can prevent these issues and maintain the alignment of your teeth. Additionally, the dental bridge helps distribute the forces of your bite evenly, reducing the strain on your remaining natural teeth.
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us at (864) 573-9255 to speak with our Spartanburg team.
With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or even longer. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for their longevity. It's important to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods to prevent damage to the bridge. If well-maintained, bridges can provide a reliable solution for missing teeth for many years.
Modern dental bridges are designed to look natural and comfortable. They are crafted to match your natural teeth's color, shape, and size, ensuring a seamless fit and feel. Dr. Gibas creates bridges that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Plus, they are customized for your mouth, so they should not cause discomfort when eating or speaking.
No, the procedure is typically painless. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring you are comfortable throughout the process. Dr. Gibas prioritizes patient comfort and uses anesthesia to prevent any pain or discomfort during the bridge placement procedure. After the procedure, some patients might experience mild discomfort or soreness, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications and usually subsides within a few days.
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to maintain oral hygiene. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a floss threader or special floss designed for bridges can help clean hard-to-reach areas around the bridge. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the bridge's condition and ensure it remains in good shape. Dr. Gibas might also recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent gum disease and keep the supporting teeth healthy.
Yes, you can eat normally with a dental bridge. However, it's advisable to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods, as they can potentially damage the bridge. Initially, it might be helpful to stick to softer foods and gradually reintroduce harder items into your diet as you become accustomed to the bridge. Dr. Gibas can provide specific dietary guidelines based on your individual case.
If your dental bridge feels loose or uncomfortable, it's important to contact Dr. Gibas as soon as possible. A loose bridge can cause irritation, difficulty in chewing, and might lead to further dental problems if not addressed promptly. Dr. Gibas can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate course of action, which might involve adjusting or replacing the bridge to ensure it fits properly and comfortably.
While dental bridges are carefully designed to look and feel natural, some people might experience a slight adjustment period. It might take a few days to get used to the presence of the bridge in your mouth. However, most individuals adapt quickly, and the bridge becomes comfortable, allowing for normal eating and speaking.
Alternatives to dental bridges include dental implants and removable partial dentures. Dental implants are surgically placed artificial tooth roots that support a replacement tooth, while partial dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. Dr. Gibas can discuss these options with you based on your specific needs and preferences.
