Brighten Your Smile for Spring: Is Professional Teeth Whitening for You?
Spring is the season of fresh starts, wardrobe changes, and brighter days. It’s also the perfect time to refresh your smile. We can help with that.
What to Expect When You Get a Dental Bridge
Losing a tooth can affect much more than just your smile. Missing teeth can make chewing difficult, impact your speech, and even cause nearby teeth to shift out of place. The loss can also impact your overall physical and emotional health.
One reliable solution dentists often recommend for missing teeth is a dental bridge. This restoration “bridges” the gap created in your smile, helping restore both appearance and function.
Dental bridges are one of our specialties here at Northwest Dental Services & Denture Implant Center. Here’s more from our team about what the process involves and what you should expect before, during, and after treatment.
Dental bridges explained
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It typically consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) supported by dental crowns that attach to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth, called abutment teeth, help keep the bridge securely in place.
Dental bridges are designed and colored to blend in with your natural teeth, restoring both the look and functionality of your smile. With proper care, a bridge can last many years and help prevent the shifting of surrounding teeth.
The initial consultation
The first step toward getting a dental bridge is a consultation. During this visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to determine whether a bridge is the right option for you.
The dentist may take X-rays to evaluate the health of your surrounding teeth and jawbone. They also discuss your treatment goals, explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have.
If the supporting teeth are strong and healthy enough, a dental bridge can often be an excellent solution.
Preparing the supporting teeth
If you move forward with treatment, the next step is preparing the teeth that will support the bridge. These teeth are carefully reshaped so that dental crowns can fit securely over them.
After preparing the teeth, your dentist will take impressions or digital scans of your mouth. Our on-site, state-of-the-art dental laboratory uses these measurements to create your custom bridge.
The bridge is expertly crafted to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth. And it’s hard to beat the time-saving convenience of our on-site lab.
Placing the permanent bridge
Once your custom bridge is ready, your dentist will carefully check the fit and make adjustments, if necessary, to ensure the bridge feels comfortable and aligns properly with your bite.
When everything fits correctly, the bridge is securely bonded or cemented into place. The result is a stable restoration that fills the gap and restores your ability to chew and speak comfortably.
Adjusting to your new bridge
It’s normal to experience a short adjustment period after receiving a dental bridge. Your mouth may feel slightly different for the first few days as you get used to the new restoration.
Some patients notice mild sensitivity or slight pressure when chewing, but this typically fades quickly. Your dentist may recommend starting with softer foods while you adapt to your new bridge.
Caring for your dental bridge
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your dental bridge in excellent condition. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist for routine check-ups help protect both the bridge and the supporting teeth.
Ready to restore your smile with confidence?
A dental bridge is a dependable way to replace missing teeth and restore the strength and appearance of your smile.
If you have missing teeth or are considering tooth replacement options, schedule an appointment at Northwest Dental Services & Denture Implant Center in Tacoma or Lakewood, Washington, today.
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