Dental Bridges
Dental bridges literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A Dental bridge can restore dental function and aesthetics for patients missing one or more teeth in a row. Both traditional and implant bridges are available at our Fairfax, VA, practice. Our team is highly skilled in placing both types of bridges, so you can feel confident your smile will be healthy and beautiful no matter which option you choose. We offer nitrous oxide to ensure patients experience minimal discomfort or possible tooth pain during this process.
What is a Dental Implant Bridge?
A dental implant bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and a Pontic in between. Dental bridges are supported by either natural teeth or dental implants. A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic that quite literally bridges the gap left by lost teeth or following a tooth extraction. Traditional bridges consists of two dental crowns, which fit over the teeth adjacent to the gap. These are connected by one or more artificial teeth. An implant-supported bridge is similar, the crowns fit over two dental implants that have been placed in the gap rather than affecting the remaining teeth.
Candidates for Dental Bridges
If you are missing one to two teeth or more in a row, you are a candidate for and should consider getting a dental bridge. The gap in your smile can affect more than just your appearance. You have reduced dental function, and may struggle with speaking and eating properly. A big oral issue to missing a tooth or teeth is that your remaining teeth may begin to shift out of place, leading to misalignment. Over time, the bone in that area will begin to deteriorate, which can lead to widespread tooth loss and tooth pain, among other complications.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implant Bridges?
Bridges can:
- Restore your smile
- Preserve your dental functionality
- Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Preserve bone health
- Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position, preventing possible tooth pain
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic that quite literally bridges the gap left after losing a tooth or undergoing a tooth extraction.
Set up your appointment at Fairfax Family Dental Care today! We offer Free Consultations Monday – Friday, 8-5 for New Patients!
Placing Your Dental Bridge
In order to qualify for a traditional bridge, the two teeth adjacent to where the bridge will connect must be free from decay and periodontal disease. If you meet this qualification, we will schedule your dental bridge treatment at our Fairfax, VA office. If not, we will first provide appropriate treatment to get your teeth ready.
After numbing the local area, the dentist will gently reshape the teeth that will support the crowns. Once your teeth have been properly modified/adjusted, we will take impressions of your teeth and gums. We will send these impressions to our dental lab for the creation of your custom bridge.
Since this process usually takes two weeks, we will place a temporary dental crown or a provisional bridge to protect your teeth until your permanent dental implant bridge is ready. When your custom bridge is ready, the doctor will remove the temporary crown and cement the final restoration in place.
Find Out Which Type of Bridge is Right for You
If you have a gap in your smile from missing teeth, a dental bridge can restore your oral health and confidence. Contact Fairfax Family Dental online or call 703.828.0341 for a FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION at our Fairfax Va office Monday through Friday 8-5 to discuss your dental bridge options. Emergency dental appointments are also available after regular office hours.