Dental Bridges: An Overview
Dental bridges especially benefit patients looking to replace one or more missing teeth. Our patients love our dental bridges because we ensure they blend in naturally with their existing smiles. If you are looking for a restorative dentist in Columbia, Maryland, our office is here to provide you with all your dental needs.
In addition to restorative dentistry services, we offer general and cosmetic services to provide you with a comprehensive dental healthcare provider you can trust to be there for you every step of the way.
We see patients of all ages and are happy to go over all of your options for tooth replacement so that you can make an informed decision on bettering the condition of your smile.
Dental Bridges In Columbia, MD at Columbia Family Dentist
Dental bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a prosthetic tooth in between to fill the gap. The procedure is usually completed in two or three visits to our Columbia dental office. There are several benefits to dental implants, including:
- Improving the appearance of your smile
- Restoring your chewing and speaking patterns
- Maintaining the structure of your jaw
- Relieving muscle strain around your mouth
- Preventing teeth from shifting
On your first visit, our dentists will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap for the dental bridge. Our dental care team will take precise dental impressions to ensure your bridge fits comfortably and securely in the space. We will then send your impressions to our labs and provide you with a temporary bridge until your permanent bridge is complete.
Once we receive your bridge from our labs, you will return to our office for final placement. At this appointment, your temporary bridge is removed and replaced with your permanent dental bridge through dental cement.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Are dental bridges painful to wear?
No. You will forget that you have one once you adjust to wearing your modern dental bridge! Your dentist will ensure it fits snugly and you are comfortable with it. Your dentist will examine the bridge every time you visit our dentist office. Make sure to communicate with your dentist if you feel discomfort in your dental bridge.
Can I remove a bridge and put it back on?
Only your dentist can remove your bridge and put it back on. Our dentist can sometimes adjust your loose-fitting bridge but do not try this at home. You can cause more damage to the bridge by trying to adjust it yourself without the proper equipment.
Can a tooth get infected under a bridge?
Your natural teeth underneath the crowns of a dental bridge can get infected due to tooth decay. Your anchor teeth under a dental bridge are not immune to oral health issues. Be sure to clean thoroughly around and under your bridge.
Can you sleep with a dental bridge?
Take out removable bridges every night while sleeping. This gives your mouth time to recover and gives your muscles and gums a break from the appliance. It also gives patients time to clean their bridges.
Can you eat with dental bridges?
Patients with dental bridges can eat normally. Being cautious with your diet can extend the lifespan of your bridge.
Schedule A Dental Exam at Columbia Family Dentist
We look forward to meeting with you to discuss possible treatments for tooth replacements. Schedule an appointment today to review your options, or call our office at 410-670-8211. We will happily answer any questions you may have on dental bridges and any of our other restorative dentistry solutions.