Dental Bridges

Restoring Your Smile and Function With Dental Bridges

At Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, OH, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. One of the effective treatments we offer for missing teeth is dental bridges. This article will explain what dental bridges are, how they work, their benefits, the different types available, and how to care for them. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether a dental bridge might be the right solution for your dental needs.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap created by those teeth. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) and a false tooth or teeth (called pontics) in between. Dental bridges help restore your smile, maintain the shape of your face, and alleviate the stress on your bite by distributing the forces in your bite properly.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves a few visits to the dentist. During the initial consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to assess the health of your remaining teeth and the structure of your jawbone. If a dental bridge is deemed appropriate, the dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a portion of their enamel to allow room for the crowns.

Next, impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom bridge is created. This process can take a couple of weeks. In the meantime, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums. Once your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to the dentist for a fitting. The dentist will carefully place the bridge, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The bridge is then cemented into place, restoring your smile and function.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer several benefits that make them a popular choice for people looking to replace missing teeth:

• Restores Your Smile: Bridges fill the gaps in your smile, improving your appearance and boosting your confidence.
• Maintains Facial Shape: Missing teeth can cause your face to sag and look older. Bridges help maintain the natural shape of your face.
• Improves Chewing and Speaking: Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak properly. Bridges restore the ability to chew food efficiently and speak clearly.
• Prevents Teeth from Shifting: When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift into the gap, causing misalignment. Bridges help prevent this by keeping your teeth in their proper position.
• Durable and Long-Lasting: With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, providing a reliable solution for missing teeth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to the longevity and effectiveness of your dental bridge. Here are some tips to keep your implant or removable dental bridges in excellent condition:

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from around the bridge.
• Use an Interdental Brush or Floss Threader: These tools can help clean under the pontic and around the abutment teeth.
• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to monitor the health of your bridge and surrounding teeth.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can damage your bridge. Stick to softer foods and avoid habits that could harm your bridge.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health and the longevity of your dental bridge.

Let MVS Replace Your Missing Teeth With Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a reliable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak and maintain the natural shape of your face. With several types of bridges available, your dentist can help you choose the best option for your specific needs. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that your dental bridge lasts for many years, providing you with a beautiful, functional smile.

If you’re considering a dental bridge, schedule a consultation with Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, OH, to discuss your options and start your journey to a restored smile. Our friendly and experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the highest quality care. We understand that dental visits can be daunting for some, but we strive to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Our state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate staff are dedicated to your well-being.

At Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, Ohio, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, or if you’re due for a cleaning, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to provide you with the best care possible. For more information or to book an appointment, contact call us directly.