Dental Bridges
Your Gateway to Great Dental Care
Experience the Difference at Southcoast Dental
Dental Bridges in Wareham, MA
Gaps in your smile not only affect your self-confidence but they can also lead to more serious dental health issues. Missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and difficulties with chewing and speaking. At Southcoast Dental, our dental bridges are designed to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth, helping maintain the natural shape of your face and restoring full functionality to your bite.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made replacement for one or more missing teeth that literally “bridges” the gap where the teeth are absent. This dental prosthesis is comprised of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap — these are called abutment teeth — and a false tooth or teeth in between. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants, which serve as the foundation for the bridge. They are an effective solution to restore the functionality and aesthetics of your smile while blending with your natural teeth.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?
During your consultation at Southcoast Dental, our team will conduct a thorough assessment of your dental and overall health to determine if a dental bridge is the best solution for your specific needs. Ideal candidates for dental bridges typically include individuals who:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Possess good oral health
- Maintain overall health
- Are looking for a durable and less invasive option
How Long do Dental Bridges Last?
The longevity of a dental bridge largely depends on the quality of the materials used and the standards of the fabrication process. The health of the supporting teeth and gums, the effectiveness of the patient’s oral hygiene practices, and the amount of stress placed on the bridge through daily activities can all influence the durability of a dental bridge. To maximize the lifespan of your dental bridge, it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Southcoast Dental are also essential, allowing for professional monitoring and maintenance of the dental bridge and overall oral health.
The Dental Bridge Treatment Process
Initial Consultation and Examination
Dr. Kiehl will review your dental and medical history, conduct a thorough examination of your oral health, and use high-quality imaging technology to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. This helps determine the best approach for your dental bridge, ensuring it is tailored to your specific needs.
Preparation of Abutment Teeth and Temporary Bridge Fitting
The next step involves preparing the abutment teeth to anchor the bridge securely. This includes recontouring the teeth to allow for a dental crown to be placed over them, which will support the bridge. After the teeth are prepared, an impression of your teeth is taken, which will be used to create the bridge, ensuring a precise fit. A temporary bridge is fitted to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being crafted.
Permanent Bridge Creation
We utilize state-of-the-art technology to fabricate your dental bridge, which allows us to create a bridge that fits seamlessly into your bite and matches the color of your natural teeth. The use of CEREC ensures that the bridge not only fits perfectly but also looks natural and aesthetic.
Final Adjustment and Fitting of the Permanent Bridge
Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to our office for the final fitting. We will place the bridge, checking the fit and the bite, and making any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is comfortable and functional. This final appointment also includes a review of how to care for your new bridge to ensure its longevity, including proper brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups.
Benefits of Tooth Bridges
- Restored Function and Aesthetics of Teeth: Dental bridges effectively restore the functionality of missing teeth, allowing patients to chew and speak without difficulty. Additionally, they are made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring that your smile looks beautiful.
- Prevention of Remaining Teeth from Shifting: When you have a gap from a missing tooth, the adjacent teeth can gradually shift towards the empty space, leading to misalignment. A dental bridge fills this gap, stabilizing the surrounding teeth and maintaining the integrity of your natural tooth alignment.
- Improved Oral Health and Ease of Cleaning: By preventing teeth from shifting and reducing the risk of food particles getting trapped in open gaps, dental bridges help maintain better oral hygiene. They are designed to be easy to clean around, similar to your natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing.
- Long-term Reliability and Comfort: Dental bridges are a durable solution for missing teeth, with the potential to last many years with proper care. With advancements in dental technology and high-quality materials used at SouthCoast Dental, you can rely on your dental bridge to be a long-term solution for your oral health needs.
Schedule a Dental Bridge Consultation in Wareham, MA
Don’t let the gap in your smile hold you back any longer. If you’re considering a dental bridge or want to explore the best options for replacing missing teeth, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Kiehl at Southcoast Dental in Wareham, MA. During your visit, we will discuss your dental health, evaluate your suitability, and outline the best treatment plan to restore your smile’s functionality and appearance.