Those who are missing one or more teeth may have a hard time chewing or speaking. A dental bridge in Sylva, North Carolina, is a great way to restore the beauty and functionality of your smile. A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth or teeth with artificial teeth by bridging the gap caused by missing teeth. A dental bridge is made of a replacement tooth (or teeth) with a dental crown attached on either side. The dental crowns are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap.
Eating & Speaking with a Bridge
Eating with a dental bridge makes things easier, as it replaces missing teeth. While growing accustomed to a dental bridge, the patient should eat soft foods that are cut into small pieces. Speaking clearly with missing teeth can be difficult. Having a dental bridge placed will allow the patient to speak properly.
Types of Bridges
– Traditional bridge – A crown for the teeth on both sides of the gap with a false tooth in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge.
– Cantilever bridge – Used when there are only adjacent teeth on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This type of bridge is not commonly used anymore.
– Maryland bonded bridge – Replacement teeth and gums supported by a framework made of metal or porcelain. Metal or porcelain wings on one or both side of the bridge are bonded to the existing teeth.
Dental Bridge Placement
When placing a dental bridge, our dentist will remove some tooth enamel from the teeth on either side of the gap. This will allow room for the dental crowns, which anchor the bridge, to be placed over the teeth. Impressions will then be taken of your smile. These impressions will be used to create your individualized dental bridge. Once the bridge is complete, it will be cemented into place.
For more information and to set up your next visit with Dr. Laurin Cardwell, we invite you to contact Cardwell Family Dentistry at 828-631-3567 today.