A dental bridge offers a proven solution for patients missing one or more teeth. At Southern Pines Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how tooth loss can affect both your oral health and self-confidence. Dental bridges literally “bridge” the gap created by missing teeth. These custom-made prosthetics restore the appearance of a complete smile, reestablish proper chewing function, and speech clarity. Dr. Gessell’s expertise in designing and placing dental bridges has helped many patients regain confidence and oral health after tooth loss.
Understanding Dental Bridges
A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. This fixed prosthetic consists of replacement teeth anchored in place by dental crowns attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth. The result is a seamless dental restoration that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.
Dental bridges serve several important functions beyond cosmetic improvement. When a tooth is lost, surrounding teeth naturally begin to shift toward the empty space, disrupting your bite alignment and potentially causing additional dental problems. Bridges prevent this movement, maintaining proper spacing and bite relationship. They also distribute chewing forces properly across your dental arch, preventing excessive stress on remaining teeth. By filling gaps, bridges help maintain facial structure that might otherwise change due to bone loss following tooth extraction.
Types of Dental Bridges
At our Southern Pines practice, Dr. Gessell offers several types of bridges to address different clinical situations:
- Traditional bridges remain the most common type, using crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap to support one or more replacement teeth. These bridges provide excellent stability and are appropriate for most situations where healthy teeth exist on both sides of the missing tooth.
- Cantilever bridges offer a solution when supporting teeth are available on only one side of the gap. While less common than traditional bridges, they provide an effective option in specific situations, particularly toward the front of the mouth where chewing forces are lighter.
- Maryland bridges provide a more conservative alternative for replacing front teeth. Rather than using full crowns on adjacent teeth, these bridges attach to the backs of supporting teeth with special metal or porcelain wings bonded to the enamel. This approach preserves more of the natural tooth structure of the supporting teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges are best for patients missing multiple teeth, combining the stability of dental implants with the functionality of bridges. These restorations anchor to dental implants rather than natural teeth, offering exceptional support without affecting adjacent healthy teeth.
The Bridge Placement Process
Creating and placing a dental bridge at Dr. Gessell’s practice typically involves several steps spread over two to three appointments. During your initial consultation, Dr. Gessell thoroughly evaluates your oral health, discusses replacement options, and determines if a bridge is the right solution for your specific situation. If you choose to proceed with a bridge, this appointment may include preliminary impressions and shade matching to ensure your restoration blends naturally with your existing teeth.
At your preparation appointment, Dr. Gessell carefully reshapes the abutment teeth to accommodate crowns, removing a small amount of enamel to ensure proper fit. After preparation, he takes precise impressions that the dental laboratory will use to create your custom bridge. Dr. Gessell places a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain appearance while your permanent restoration is being crafted.
When your custom bridge is ready, usually within two to three weeks, you’ll return for the final placement appointment. Dr. Gessell removes the temporary bridge and carefully checks the fit, appearance, and bite alignment of the permanent restoration. After any necessary adjustments, he permanently cements the bridge in place, providing immediate restoration of function and aesthetics.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or longer. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene proves especially important with bridges, as the health of the supporting teeth directly affects the longevity of your restoration. Dr. Gessell recommends brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing carefully around and under the bridge using floss threaders or specialized bridge flossers.
Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings allow Dr. Gessell to monitor the condition of your bridge and supporting teeth, addressing any concerns before they threaten your restoration. For patients who clench or grind their teeth, wearing a night guard can protect your bridge from excessive forces that might damage the restoration or supporting teeth.
Bridges vs. Other Replacement Options
While considering tooth replacement options, many patients compare bridges to alternatives like dental implants and removable partial dentures. Bridges offer several advantages, including quicker completion time than implants and greater stability than removable partials. The procedure is non-surgical and typically costs less than implant treatment.
However, bridges do require modification of adjacent healthy teeth and don’t address the bone loss that naturally occurs after tooth extraction. During your consultation, Dr. Gessell thoroughly explains the benefits and considerations of all appropriate options. We help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Restore Your Smile with a Custom Bridge
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge might be the ideal solution to restore your smile and oral function. Contact Southern Pines Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at 910-390-1259 or request an appointment online anytime.