Dental Bridges

What are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a custom-made false tooth anchored between two teeth or dental implants on either side of a gap. The false tooth, also known as a pontic, is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural look. Bridges can be made from porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys.

The Dental Bridge Procedure Process

Getting a dental bridge requires two visits to your dentist. 

First Visit

During the first visit, the teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for the bridge. This involves removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the bridge. Impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a dental lab to build the customized bridge. Dr. Laurence Palmer will place a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.

Second Visit

On your second visit, Dr. Laurence Palmer will remove the temporary bridge and fit the permanent one in place. They will ensure the bridge fits comfortably and securely before cementing it. With proper care, dental bridges can last for up to ten years.

Aftercare

1. Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth, including the dental bridge, at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from around and beneath the dental bridge.
2. Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule and attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the dental bridge and ensure overall oral health.
3. Avoid Hard Foods: Steer clear of hard or sticky foods that could damage the dental bridge. Opt for a diet that is gentle on your teeth.
4. Night Guards for Bruxism: If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), consider using a night guard to protect both natural teeth and the dental bridge.
5. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: Reduce the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages to minimize the risk of decay and damage to the dental bridge.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering many benefits beyond restoring a complete smile. At our office in Ogden, Utah, we take pride in providing comprehensive dental care, including creating and placing dental bridges. Let’s explore the advantages dental bridges offer patients seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for their tooth loss.

1. Restoration of Aesthetics: Dental bridges effectively fill the gaps left by missing teeth, restoring a natural and harmonious appearance to your smile. The custom design ensures that the bridge blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
2. Improved Speech: Missing teeth can impact speech clarity. Dental bridges help restore proper speech patterns, allowing you to communicate confidently without pronunciation issues.
3. Enhanced Chewing Functionality: Dental bridges restore the ability to chew and bite effectively, preventing potential issues related to improper digestion and nutrition. This improvement in functionality contributes to overall health and well-being.
4. Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: Unlike some tooth replacement options, dental bridges do not require the removal of healthy tooth structures from adjacent teeth. This preservation of natural teeth helps maintain their integrity and reduces the risk of future dental problems.
5. Prevention of Shifting Teeth: When a tooth is lost, the neighboring teeth may gradually shift into the space, leading to misalignment. Dental bridges prevent this shifting by filling the gap and maintaining the proper teeth alignment.

Dental Bridges in Ogden, UT

Dental bridges are an effective solution for those looking to restore their smile and improve their dental health. The procedure is quick and painless, with long-lasting benefits. If you have missing or damaged teeth, schedule a consultation with our team today to see if dental bridges are your solution!