Missing teeth can impact not only your smile but also your ability to eat and speak comfortably. At Alpine Dental Care, we offer dental bridges as a reliable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, restoring your smile’s appearance and functionality. If you are missing teeth and looking for a durable, natural-looking solution, Dr. Pyle and our team in Cortez, Colorado, are here to help you regain your confidence and oral health with custom dental bridges.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It is made up of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) that are anchored in place by crowns placed on the adjacent healthy teeth, known as abutment teeth. Dental bridges can also be supported by dental implants, depending on the patient’s needs. Bridges are a permanent, fixed solution that provides both aesthetic and functional benefits.
Types of Dental Bridges
At Alpine Dental Care, we offer different types of dental bridges to suit your specific needs:
- Traditional Bridges: This is the most common type of bridge, which involves placing crowns on the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth to anchor the bridge in place.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: For patients who are missing several teeth, an implant-supported bridge offers a stable and long-lasting solution. The bridge is anchored to dental implants instead of natural teeth, providing added strength and durability.
- Cantilever Bridges: A cantilever bridge is used when there is only one healthy tooth available next to the missing tooth. It is less commonly used but can be a good option in certain cases.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restores Function: Bridges allow you to chew and speak comfortably by filling the gap left by missing teeth.
- Prevents Teeth from Shifting: Missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift out of alignment, leading to bite problems and further dental issues. A bridge helps prevent this by maintaining the position of your remaining teeth.
- Natural Appearance: Dental bridges are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Long-lasting: With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or more, making them a durable solution for tooth replacement.
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two or more visits:
- First Visit – Preparation and Impressions: During your first visit, Dr. Pyle will prepare the adjacent teeth by reshaping them to accommodate the crowns. Impressions of your teeth will be taken to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth while the permanent bridge is being crafted.
- Second Visit – Placement: Once your custom bridge is ready, it will be bonded to the adjacent teeth or dental implants. Dr. Pyle will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or longer. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups will help ensure the longevity of your bridge.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The process of getting a dental bridge is typically painless. Local anesthesia is used during the preparation of the abutment teeth, and most patients experience little to no discomfort.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, paying special attention to cleaning under the bridge. Regular dental checkups are also important to monitor the condition of your bridge.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, once your dental bridge is in place, you’ll be able to eat and speak normally. In fact, a dental bridge can improve your ability to chew if you’ve been missing teeth for some time.
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Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge at Alpine Dental Care!
Don’t let missing teeth affect your confidence or oral health. At Alpine Dental Care, we provide custom dental bridges to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. Call (970) 565-3612 today to schedule a consultation and find out how a dental bridge can help you regain a full, functional smile!
