Dental Bridges in Allentown, PA
Even with the best care, tooth loss can still occur. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers effective ways to replace missing teeth, and one of the most popular solutions is a dental bridge. This treatment not only restores your smile but also helps maintain your oral health.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth isn’t just about appearance. It plays a crucial role in keeping your mouth healthy. Gaps from missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, which can make biting, chewing, and even speaking difficult. Over time, the bone in your jaw can change, which may alter your facial structure.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a device that fills the gap left by a missing tooth, supported by the teeth on either side. There are several types of bridges, but most involve a prosthetic tooth (called a pontic) anchored by adjacent teeth. Unlike a dental implant, which is rooted directly into the jawbone, a bridge attaches to nearby teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridge
This common type of bridge consists of a pontic tooth attached to two crowns that cover the adjacent teeth. To place these crowns, the dentist will file down the neighboring teeth before securing the crowns with bonding resin.
Cantilever Bridge
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but only attaches to one adjacent tooth instead of two. It’s typically used for back teeth that don’t endure as much pressure when chewing.
Maryland Bridge
Instead of using crowns, a Maryland bridge relies on metal or porcelain bands bonded to the adjacent teeth. This method avoids the need for filing down nearby teeth, but it may not be strong enough for molars that handle heavier chewing forces.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a dental bridge is a bit more involved than a routine dental visit. If you’ve had a crown before, the experience will be familiar. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect:
- Preparation: If the supporting teeth need any work, like fillings or root canals, it will be done first. Then, the dentist will remove some enamel from the surrounding teeth to fit the crowns that will anchor the bridge.
- Impressions: A mold of the area will be made and sent to a lab to create your custom bridge. While you wait for your permanent bridge, a temporary one will be placed.
- Final placement: Once the permanent bridge is ready, it will be placed and adjusted for a perfect fit.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With good care, a dental bridge can last over 10 years. Be sure to brush twice a day, floss daily (especially under the pontic), and schedule regular cleanings at Kearns Family Dentistry to ensure the longevity of your bridge.
If you’re experiencing tooth loss and want to learn more about dental bridges, contact Kearns Family Dentistry at (610) 432-7565 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.