Losing one or more teeth can be a stressful time. You not only have to deal with an altered smile, but you also need to consider replacement options. At Conde Family Dental, we understand the pressure you may feel during this time. We will be with you every step of the way. Dr. Conde can discuss your potential options, including dental bridges. For Buckannon patients missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be the perfect solution to restore your smile. With our dedicated team. we can help our patients achieve a complete, healthy smile that they feel confident about.
Dental Bridges in Buckhannon, WV
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that we create specifically for your smile. It fills (or bridges) the gap in your smile left by missing teeth. Dental bridges have two main components: the pontic (an artificial tooth) and the abutments (dental crowns). We will design the pontic to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. As a result, you should have a seamless blend to your smile.
Depending on your needs and oral health, there are several types of dental bridges available. Dr. Conde will help you find the best option for your smile. Traditional bridges have a pontic that is held in place by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth. In cases where a patient only has one adjacent tooth, we can use a cantilever bridge to anchor the pontic. Finally, Maryland bridges or resin-bonded bridges use metal or porcelain wings to bond the bridge to the nearby teeth for support.
Why Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges play a critical role in restoring your smile. They fill the gap left behind by missing teeth. As a result, you can achieve a full and natural-looking smile. While bridges provide aesthetic benefits, they also serve many different functional purposes. When you have missing teeth, it can alter your ability to chew food properly and speak clearly. With bridges, we can help restore the function of your bite. This way, you can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
Furthermore, dental bridges help prevent your teeth from shifting, which is common when you lose a tooth. A dental bridge helps maintain the alignment of your teeth. This helps maintain the overall health and stability of your smile. Additionally, bridges support more than just your teeth. Missing teeth can lead to sagging of the facial muscles. This, unfortunately, leads to a sunken and older appearance. Yet, bridges support the structure of the face, giving a more youthful look.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically requires two or more visits to our office. During the first visit, we’ll prepare the adjacent teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. We will take impressions and digital x-rays of your teeth and send them to a dental lab.
Once your bridge is ready, you’ll return to our office for the final placement. We’ll ensure that the bridge fits properly and matches the color of your natural teeth. Your new dental bridge should feel comfortable in your mouth. Dr. Conde will bond the bridge into place, restoring your smile to its full beauty and function.