Bridges

What is a dental bridge?

A bridge is a dental prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges consist of two crowns with an artificial tooth (or teeth) between them. The crowns securely hold the bridge in place when your dentist at Smiles in Springfield places them over existing teeth on each side of the gap where your tooth is missing.

You can also get a bridge that’s held in place with dental implants. Your dentist evaluates factors like the number of missing teeth and the health of your remaining teeth to recommend the best type of bridge. 

Your bridge is customized to match the size, shape, and color of your existing teeth, so it blends in naturally to create a smile you’ll love.

How does a bridge help my dental health?

One of the most important reasons for getting a bridge is to improve your smile, but a bridge also promotes your dental health.

When a tooth is gone, the neighboring teeth gradually move out of alignment, tilting toward the opening instead of staying straight. Missing teeth can also cause tooth movement in the opposite jaw, where teeth tend to move up or down toward the open space.

Any tooth movement changes your bite, which increases your risk for tooth damage and decay. Getting a bridge to replace missing teeth maintains a normal bite and the shape of your jaw and face.

What is the process for getting a bridge?

Getting a bridge is a two-step process. During your first office visit, your dentist at Smiles in Springfield prepares the teeth that will anchor the bridge by shaping them to support the crowns.

Once your teeth are prepared, your dentist takes an impression of your teeth that’s used to make the bridge. Then your dentist gives you a temporary bridge or crowns to cover the prepared teeth while you wait for the permanent bridge.

When your bridge is ready, you’ll go back for your second visit. Your dentist at Smiles in Springfield removes the temporary crowns and cements the bridge in place.

How do I care for my bridge?

Your bridge needs the same dental care as the rest of your teeth: brushing and flossing twice daily. When you have a bridge, however, you’ll also need to floss the sides and underneath the bridge to remove trapped food.

If you have questions about dental bridges, call Smiles in Springfield or schedule an appointment online.