Dental Bridges at Palmetto Family Dental

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, that are anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or implants. Bridges help maintain the shape of your face, prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position, and restore your ability to chew and speak properly.

Explore our full range of restorative dentistry services to learn how we can help restore your smile and oral function.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer numerous benefits for individuals with missing teeth:

• Restores Your Smile: Bridges fill gaps in your smile, enhancing your appearance and boosting your self-confidence.
• Improves Chewing and Speaking: Replacing missing teeth allows you to eat and speak more comfortably and naturally.
• Prevents Tooth Movement: Bridges keep remaining teeth in their correct positions, preventing them from shifting and causing further dental issues.
• Durable and Long-Lasting: Made from strong, high-quality materials, bridges are designed to withstand everyday use and last for many years with proper care.

Learn more about alternative options like dental implants and full & partial dentures to find the best tooth replacement solution for you.

Types of Dental Bridges We Offer

At Palmetto Family Dental, we offer several types of dental bridges to suit your specific needs:

• Traditional Bridges: The most common type, traditional bridges use crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap to support the pontic. This type is ideal when you have healthy, natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when there is only one adjacent tooth available to anchor the bridge, cantilever bridges are often used in areas of the mouth with less stress, like the front teeth.
• Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these use a metal or porcelain framework with wings that are bonded to the back of adjacent teeth. Maryland bridges are often used to replace missing front teeth.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges are anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth, providing extra stability and strength, especially for larger gaps.

Our experienced doctors will assess your dental health and help you choose the right type of bridge for your needs.

The Dental Bridge Process at Palmetto Family Dental

Receiving a dental bridge at Palmetto Family Dental involves a few steps to ensure the best fit and optimal results:

1. Consultation and Examination: During your initial visit, our team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine if a bridge is the right option. We may use dental X-rays and dental impressions to plan your treatment.
2. Tooth Preparation: For traditional bridges, the adjacent teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. If an implant-supported bridge is recommended, implant placement may be the first step.
3. Bridge Fabrication: Impressions are taken to create your custom bridge, which is crafted from high-quality materials to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth.
4. Bridge Placement: Once your bridge is ready, it is adjusted for a perfect fit and securely bonded in place. We ensure the bridge feels comfortable and functions correctly, restoring your smile.

Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential to maintain your bridge and overall oral health.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care and maintenance of your dental bridge are key to its longevity and your oral health. Follow these tips to keep your bridge in excellent condition:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss under the bridge to prevent decay and gum disease around the supporting teeth.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from biting into hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your bridge.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule routine check-ups at our locations to ensure your bridge remains secure and your surrounding teeth stay healthy.

For additional support, consider our periodontal therapy to maintain healthy gums around your bridge.

Convenient Locations and Expert Care

Palmetto Family Dental proudly serves the communities of Fayetteville, McDonough, Palmetto, and Zebulon. Our dedicated team provides expert care in a welcoming environment, ensuring you receive the highest quality service. Visit our locations page to find the office nearest you.