A dental bridge can replace missing teeth by connecting the gap between teeth. We provide dental bridge treatment in Bethlehem, PA, as an excellent restorative dentistry treatment for one or more missing teeth. As an experienced restorative dentist in Bethlehem, Dr. Ren will work with you to find the best solution to replace your teeth. He can offer both traditional and modern bridges that use the support of dental implants.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Some people wonder if they really need to replace missing teeth, especially if they’re not visible when they smile. The answer is yes. When you lose a tooth, your remaining teeth can start to shift out of place and change how your teeth fit together when you bite. Losing teeth can also make other teeth harder to clean, which might lead to more cavities and gum disease.
Over time, you can lose jaw bone as your mouth loses support from your tooth roots. Bone loss can also change the shape of your face over time. Your cheeks might start to look sunken and make you appear older.
What are Dental Bridges?
Traditional dental bridges are made up of two main parts. First, crowns go on the teeth on either side of the gap. Second, there is an artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills the gap. The artificial teeth are called “pontics” and the teeth that hold the crowns are called “abutment teeth.”
Dental bridges can help you:
- Smile with confidence again
- Chew your food better
- Speak more clearly
- Keep your face shape looking normal
- Stop other teeth from moving out of place
You may be a good candidate for a dental bridge if:
- You’re missing one or more teeth
- The teeth next to the gap are healthy and strong
- You want a fixed solution (not a removable one)
- You prefer not to have surgery
- You need a solution that works quickly
Dr. Ren will examine your mouth and talk with you about all your options for replacing missing teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
Four main types of dental bridges are available. Dr. Ren will help you choose the right one for you:
- Traditional Dental Bridge: This is the most common type of bridge. Dr. Ren places dental crowns on the teeth on both sides of the gap, and an artificial tooth sits in between. This type of bridge is very stable and can last a long time.
- Maryland Dental Bridge: We use this bridge for front teeth. Instead of crowns, it uses metal or porcelain wings bonded to the backs of your teeth. This technique supports the bridge with less stress on your natural teeth.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge: If you only have one tooth next to the gap, this might be your option. A crown is placed on that tooth and holds the artificial tooth in place.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: This is the strongest type. Dental implants are placed in your jawbone instead of using your natural teeth for support. The dental implants hold the bridge in place.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Choosing between a dental bridge and a dental implant can be overwhelming. Dr. Ren works with patients on an individual basis to help them make the right choice for their unique needs. They each have pros and cons, and Dr. Ren will take the time to discuss how each will affect your smile and what to expect.
In general, dental implants can offer more significant benefits for long-term oral health and daily quality of life. Dental Bridges:
- Can be completed in just a few weeks
- Usually costs less than implants up front
- Can use existing teeth for support
- Typically lasts 10-15 years with good care
Dental Implants:
- Are placed directly into your jawbone
- Can last a lifetime with proper care
- Don’t impact other healthy teeth
- Support the jawbone structure
- May require several months to complete
Dr. Ren will help you decide which option is best for you based on your overall health, budget, and personal needs.
Getting a Dental Bridge at DICE Dental
Placing a dental bridge usually takes at least two visits to our Bethlehem dentist office. We want your final outcome to be comfortable, secure, and lasting. Before treatment, Dr. Ren will examine your teeth and make sure a bridge is right for you. He may recommend pretreatments like periodontal disease treatments or tooth extractions.
To begin, Dr. Ren will prepare the teeth on either side of the tooth gap by removing a small amount of enamel. Then, Dr. Ren takes impressions (molds) of your teeth and sends them to a local dental lab. You get a temporary bridge to wear while your permanent one is being made.
At your second visit, we remove the temporary bridge. Dr. Ren will check that the new bridge fits well and make adjustments as needed. Finally, Dr. Ren cements the bridge in place.
Some people need a third visit to make sure the bridge is perfect. After getting your bridge, you might need a little time to get used to it. Your mouth may feel different initially, but this feeling disappears quickly.
Aftercare
Taking care of your dental bridge is simple but very important if you want it to last a long time. A dental bridge replaces missing teeth, but it still needs daily care to stay clean and strong.
First, brush your teeth at least twice every day, just like you would with natural teeth. Make sure to brush all around your dental bridge to remove food and plaque. You can also use special floss, like a floss threader or water flosser, to clean under your bridge. Flossing every day helps prevent gum disease and cavities around your natural teeth.
Right after you get your bridge, you should avoid chewing on very hard foods like ice or hard candies. Sticky foods can also pull on the bridge and make it loose. Instead, we recommend that you eat softer foods first until you get used to your new bite.
Also, remember to visit Dr. Ren at least twice a year for a cleaning and check-up. Dr. Ren will check your bridge to make sure it is still fitting well and not causing any problems. Professional cleanings also keep your mouth healthy and can make your bridge last longer.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Don’t let missing teeth affect your smile, your speech, or your ability to enjoy your favorite foods. Dental bridge treatment in our Bethlehem, PA dental office can be an excellent solution to restore your smile and your confidence.
Dice Dental welcomes new patients and can help you restore your smile with appropriate dental care. Contact our office and request an appointment to explore your treatment options for tooth replacement.