Missing a tooth or multiple teeth can affect more than just your smile, it can impact your ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper bite alignment. At Pristine Smiles, we offer custom dental bridges to restore both the appearance and function of your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed, natural-looking solution designed to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring a false tooth (or teeth) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. A dental bridge “ bridges ” the space left by a missing tooth. It typically consists of:
- Two crowns that are placed on the healthy teeth (called abutment teeth ) on either side of the gap
- A false tooth (pontic) that fills in the space, securely attached to the two crowns
Bridges are custom-made from high-quality materials such as porcelain, zirconia, gold alloy, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, and are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
- Restores your smile and confidence
- Improves chewing and speaking ability
- Prevents remaining teeth from shifting out of place
- Maintains the shape of your face and jaw alignment
- Provides a long-lasting and fixed alternative to removable dentures
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Treatment for a dental bridge typically involves two appointments:
First Appointment - Tooth Preparation & Temporary Bridge:
- The teeth on either side of the gap are carefully reshaped to prepare for crowns.
- A digital scan or impression is taken to ensure an accurate, custom fit.
- A temporary acrylic (plastic) bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain appearance while your permanent bridge is crafted in a dental lab.
Second Appointment - Permanent Bridge Placement:
- The temporary bridge is removed.
- The final bridge is carefully checked for fit, comfort, and color match.
- It is then cemented securely onto the prepared teeth, restoring your bite and smile.
We work closely with skilled dental technicians to ensure your bridge is both durable and aesthetically matched to your natural teeth.
Looking After Your Dental Bridge at Home
A dental bridge is a long-term solution, but proper care is essential to help it last as long as possible.
Daily Care Tips:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to protect the natural teeth supporting your bridge.
- Clean underneath the false tooth daily, using:
- Avoid biting hard foods or objects that could damage the bridge.
- Visit us regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings so we can monitor the condition of your bridge and surrounding teeth.
Our dental team will show you exactly how to clean around and underneath your bridge effectively to keep your smile healthy.
Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?
Dental bridges are just one option for replacing missing teeth. Other options include:
- Partial dentures - removable and often more affordable
- Dental implants - permanent replacements that don’t affect nearby teeth
At Pristine Smiles, we’ll discuss all suitable options with you and help you choose the best treatment for your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
If you're missing one or more teeth, don’t let it affect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation today with the team at Pristine Smiles to find out if a dental bridge is the right solution for you.
