Missing teeth are a common dental issue and can occur for any number of reasons. Whatever the cause, the result can potentially lead to other oral health issues or a loss of self-confidence. At Triangle Restoration Dentistry, our skilled prosthodontists are committed to restoring smiles and improving patients’ oral health and quality of life through prosthetic and cosmetic dental services. A common approach to replacing missing teeth and restoring smiles is dental bridges. But what are dental bridges?
Triangle Restoration Dentistry offers residents of Durham and the surrounding Triangle area of North Carolina cosmetic and prosthetic dental services, including dental bridges. Call 888.280.2678 today to learn how we can help restore your smile.
What Are Dental Bridges?
As mentioned, dental bridges replace missing teeth by “bridging” the gap with a dental prosthetic. There are different types of dental bridges, and you should consult with your prosthodontist to determine which type best suits your needs.
Two common types of dental bridges are traditional and implant-supported:
Traditional Dental Bridges
This is the most common type of dental bridge. It uses dental crowns that fit over the healthy teeth at either end of the gap, and artificial teeth fill the gap between. Naturally, this entire process involves taking impressions of your mouth to ensure the artificial teeth line up correctly and preparing the natural teeth on either side of the gap to receive the dental crowns. A temporary bridge may be inserted while your dental bridge is fabricated and then inserted.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is often an option when multiple teeth are missing in a row. In this case, two or more implants are inserted into the jawbone and allowed to heal and fuse to the bone. Impressions and measurements of the mouth are taken, and the bridge is fabricated according to these measurements. Once everything is ready, the bridge is secured to the implants. Because this process is a bit more complex, the total time from the initial consultation to the final bridge can be longer.
These are not the only types of dental bridges, so consulting a professional prosthodontic practice like Triangle Restoration Dentistry is the best idea for sustained oral health and a beautiful smile.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
Not everyone may be an ideal candidate for dental bridges, but many individuals with missing teeth could benefit from this dental solution. Generally, candidates for dental bridges are those with one or more missing teeth who have healthy teeth on either side of the gap or sufficient bone structure for implants. It’s essential for candidates to maintain good oral hygiene and wear a night guard to ensure the longevity of the bridge and to have no significant health issues that could compromise the bridge’s stability.
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages, including the following:
- Restore functionality for chewing and speaking.
- Maintain facial shape and prevent shifting of adjacent teeth.
- Provide a fixed, long-term solution compared to dentures.
Beyond the practical advantages, there is also the benefit of a restored smile. Your smile is one of the first things people see, and if you are displeased with your smile, it can have adverse effects on your self-esteem and self-confidence. At Triangle Restoration Dentistry, our compassionate dental professionals help people regain their smiles and live their best lives.
Contact Triangle Restoration Dentistry Today
When considering solutions to missing teeth, it is natural to ask, “What are dental bridges?” The best answer is to contact a professional prosthodontist and learn about your options, including dental bridges. Triangle Restoration Dentistry in Durham, NC, provides prosthetic and cosmetic dental services to residents and the surrounding area. Call 888.280.2678 or reach out online today to begin the process of restoring your smile.