If you have a missing tooth or missing teeth due to trauma, decay, or age, a dental bridge may be the solution for you. Dental bridges are a popular restorative dentistry option that allows you to regain full function of your mouth, provide proper alignment and prevent further oral health issues down the line.
A dental bridge is composed of two dental crowns that work to “bridge” the gap between your missing teeth. Typically, dental bridges are made out of porcelain so that they can blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth and provide you with a strong bite.
Read more to learn about how you can benefit from dental bridges near you.
Dental Bridge Procedure
If you are considering dental bridges, then it is important that you know what to expect during and after the procedure, which can be broken down into the following steps:
#1 Consultation with Your Dentist
When you visit Wainwright Family Dental seeking dental bridges, our dentist near you will begin by examining your mouth using 3-D imaging to better understand your mouth and jaw structure. Sometimes, you will require additional dental treatments to get your jawbone and gums healthy before you can go ahead with a dental procedure.
#2 Tooth Preparation and Impressions
Once it has been determined that you are a viable candidate for dental bridges, our dentist in Wainwright will reshape the natural teeth on either side of the gap created by your missing tooth. This will allow these teeth to hold the dental crowns used to bridge the gap between your teeth. Since the process requires extensive reshaping, our dentist will use a local anesthesia to numb the area, so you won’t have to worry about feeling any pain.
There are four main types of dental bridges available. The type of dental bridge that our dentist uses will be dependent on the location, size, and positioning of your missing tooth.
#3 Dental Bridge Creation
After your dentist has reshaped your teeth, they will take impressions of your teeth that will be sent to a dental laboratory to create your custom-made dental bridge. Since it can take a few weeks for the lab to fabricate your dental bridge, our dentist will fit you with a temporary bridge to ensure that your teeth are protected while you wait.
After your permanent dental bridge has been created, you will be invited back to Wainwright Family Dental to have it placed. At this time, the dental crowns will be bonded to your adjacent teeth, and the artificial tooth will be fitted into the gap.
After the Procedure
It is normal to take a few days to get used to the feel of your new dental bridge. You should care for your dental bridge the same way that you care for your natural teeth. This means brushing and flossing daily and visiting your dentist at least once every six months for routine dental cleanings and checkups. Doing this will ensure that your dental bridge lasts for as long as possible.
Visit Wainwright Family Dental
Our team at Wainwright Family Dental is happy to provide our patients with dental bridges in Wainwright. We are happy to address any questions or concerns that you may have about this restorative dental procedure.
If you feel that dental bridges are right for you, please contact our clinic to book a consultation today. We cannot wait to restore your smile!