If you have lost teeth, Dr. Duane Marshall may recommend a dental bridge as a solution. This prosthetic tooth replacement can help you regain a healthy, confident smile in as little as two visits to Mountain View Dentistry!
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. If you have gaps in your smile due to tooth loss, a dental bridge may be an excellent option for you. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, which fill the space where your natural teeth are missing. These pontics are anchored securely on either side by dental crowns, which are placed on the natural teeth, or by implants adjacent to the gap. This creates a “bridge” across the empty space, restoring your smile’s appearance and functionality.
The Dental Bridge Process
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves two key visits to our office. During your first visit, the teeth that will anchor the bridge, known as abutments, are prepared. This preparation involves reshaping these teeth so that the crowns can fit over them properly. After the teeth are prepared, an impression of your teeth is made, which is used to custom-make the bridge, pontic and crowns so that they fit perfectly in your mouth. While your permanent bridge is being crafted, you will likely wear a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Your second visit will occur once the custom-made bridge is ready. During this appointment, the temporary bridge is removed and the new bridge is adjusted to ensure a comfortable and precise fit. Once the fit is confirmed, the bridge is permanently cemented into place, effectively restoring your smile.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous benefits beyond just restoring your smile, including:
- Maintaining the natural shape of your face, preventing the sunken appearance that often accompanies tooth loss.
- Distributing bite forces more evenly, alleviating stress on your other teeth.
- Preventing your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of position.
- Restoring and enhancing your ability to chew and speak properly, which can be significantly impacted by missing teeth.
- Offering a fixed (non-removable) alternative to removable dentures.
- A long-lasting solution, as bridges can last for many years with proper care.
Make Your Appointment
To find out if a dental bridge in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, is the right solution for you, please contact our office at 505-867-1442. Our team will be happy to help you schedule an appointment with our experienced dentist.
505-867-1442