A bridge may be used to replace missing teeth, help maintain the shape of your face, and alleviate stress on your bite. A bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth, looks great, and literally bridges the gap where one or more teeth may have been.

Your bridge can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials and is bonded onto surrounding teeth for support. The success of any bridge depends on its foundation — the other teeth, gums, or bone to which it is attached. Therefore, it’s very important to keep your existing teeth, gums, and jaw healthy and strong. For dental bridges in Roanoke, call Eschenbach Dental for dental bridgework or other dentistry for missing teeth.

When do you need a dental bridge?

If a natural tooth is missing, nearby remaining teeth can move into the empty space. The teeth in your opposite jaw can also move up or down toward the space. This can cause:

  • Chewing difficulties
  • Bite problems
  • Self-consciousness about the way you look or your smile

Eschenbach Dental provides high-quality dentistry bridges. Call us today to schedule an appointment if you are getting a dental bridge procedure, permanent bridge, temporary bridge, artificial tooth, dental bridge change, dental crowns, false teeth, implant-supported bridges, multiple bridges, or any kind of dental implants.

What types of dental bridges are available?

There are four main types of dental bridges. Each of these is described in more detail below, as well as a section to uncover the differences between them and the indications for the use of each type of dental bridge. The four main types of bridges are:

Traditional dental bridge

This bridge is the most common. It has two or more crowns and a filler tooth or teeth that are all connected. The crowns keep the bridge in place. Traditional bridges are made of metal, porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
Maryland dental bridge (resin-bonded bridge)
You may have this type of bridge if you have missing front teeth. It’s made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic teeth, supported by a framework. Wings on each side of the bridge bond to your existing teeth.

Cantilever bridge

In this bridge type, the pontic connects to only one abutment tooth. This can sometimes be an option for people who have teeth on only one side of the gap.

Dental Implants-supported bridge

This bridge is similar to a “traditional fixed bridge” but instead of being cemented in place to teeth, it is held in place by implants. Sometimes, your dentist may recommend a dental implant instead of a bridge. A dental lab creates new teeth based on a model of your mouth. A surgeon places the implant-supported bridge in your jaw. Over time, the dental implants integrate with the jawbone and are connected to the new teeth. The advantage of dental implant is that they don’t need support from the other teeth.

What happens during a procedure for a traditional dental bridge?

You’ll typically need at least two appointments:

  • Abutment teeth preparation: During your first visit, your healthcare provider reshapes the abutment teeth. They’ll remove part of the enamel and dentin, so there’s room for the crown.
  • Impressions: Your dental hygienist takes impressions or a digital scan of your teeth. A dental laboratory uses the mold or scan as a model to create your bridge, false teeth, and crowns. You’ll have a temporary bridge to protect the exposed areas in your mouth while the lab makes your bridge.
  • Permanent bridge placement: During your second visit, your provider removes the temporary bridge and places the permanent bridge. Your provider will carefully check the bridge and make any needed adjustments to make sure it fits you comfortably.

Best solutions for Missing Teeth

A missing tooth can certainly change the appearance of your smile. Whether a missing tooth is the result of gum disease, injury, severe tooth decay, or a genetic condition, a missing tooth can cause several problems. Luckily, there are a number of excellent options available to replace your missing tooth or teeth to help restore your beautiful smile, including:

  • Dental implants
  • Implant-supported bridge
  • Tooth-supported bridge
  • Removable partial dentures
  • Flipper

There are many excellent options to remedy a missing tooth, whether the tooth was lost through injury, gum disease, or tooth decay. Each option has its share of pros and cons, which a dental professional can help you weigh based on your specific needs and budget. At Eschenbach Dental, we’re committed to helping you and your family maintain excellent oral health for life. Visit your dentist regularly to prevent tooth decay. We also accept dental insurance.

If you are missing a tooth or teeth and would like more information about your treatment options with our team of friendly dentists in Roanoke VA. Call Eschenbach Dental today at 540.302.5813.