Dental Bridges Provided by Your "Dentist near Me" at Smile Center of Knightsville
At Smile Center of Knightsville, we understand that missing teeth can not only affect your confidence but also pose risks to your oral health. Gaps in your smile can lead to teeth shifting over time, potentially changing your bite and causing discomfort. Fortunately, dental bridges offer a reliable solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile’s functionality and aesthetics. If you’re searching for a dentist near me to address tooth loss, we provide high-quality dental bridge options that can help you regain a balanced, complete smile.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is held in place by crowns placed over the adjacent teeth. These crowns act as anchors, securing the pontic in the empty space. Most dental bridges are crafted from durable materials like porcelain fused to metal or ceramics, ensuring they blend in seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
When you visit our dentist near me at Smile Center of Knightsville, Dr. Gourdine will discuss the three main types of dental bridges to determine the best option for your specific needs:
1. Traditional Fixed Bridge: This is the most common type, involving crowns on both sides of the missing tooth or teeth to hold the pontic in place. The bridge is typically made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics, making it both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Cantilever Bridge: A cantilever bridge is ideal for situations where there is only one tooth adjacent to the gap. This bridge is commonly used for front teeth, where the bite force is lighter, as it provides stability without needing support from both sides.
3. Resin-Bonded Bridge: Often used for missing front teeth, a resin-bonded bridge features a plastic pontic supported by metal bands bonded to the surrounding teeth with resin. It’s less invasive and requires minimal alteration to the neighboring teeth, making it a conservative option.
The Procedure
Placing a dental bridge typically requires at least two appointments. During your first visit to our office, the surrounding teeth are prepared for crowns. This may involve reshaping these teeth to ensure a proper fit for the bridge. Then, we take impressions of your teeth, which are sent to a lab for custom bridge fabrication. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth until your permanent bridge is ready.
At your second appointment, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is fitted and adjusted for optimal comfort and function. We’ll ensure that it feels natural and secure, making adjustments as needed. Additional visits may be scheduled to fine-tune the fit and ensure long-term success.
If you’re looking for a dentist near me to help restore your smile, Smile Center of Knightsville is here to provide professional, personalized care. With a well-fitted dental bridge, you can enjoy a confident smile and better oral health, as it prevents neighboring teeth from shifting out of place. Schedule your consultation with us today to learn more about dental bridges and other restorative options that can enhance your smile!
