How Does a Dental Bridge Work?

Missing teeth don’t just affect your smile—they impact your confidence, bite, and overall oral health. A dental bridge restores function and aesthetics by filling the gap with a natural-looking replacement, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with ease.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth, and a false tooth or teeth in between. The false teeth, called pontics, can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants.

Key features of dental bridges include:

• Restoration of your smile and ability to chew properly
• Maintenance of the shape of your face
• Prevention of remaining teeth from drifting out of position
• Even distribution of bite force
  

Types of Dental BridgesThere are several types of dental bridges, each designed to meet specific needs and conditions. Understanding these options can help you and your dentist decide which is best for your situation.
Common types of dental bridges include:

• Traditional Bridges: The most common type, involving crowns on either side of the missing tooth with a pontic in between.
• Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: Similar to traditional bridges but supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth.
  

The Dental Bridge ProcedureThe process of getting a dental bridge typically involves multiple visits to the dentist. Initially, the abutment teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate crowns. Impressions of your teeth are then taken to create a model for the bridge, pontic, and crowns. During the interim period, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums. Once your permanent bridge is ready, it is checked and adjusted for proper fit before being cemented into place.Benefits of Dental BridgesDental bridges offer numerous advantages beyond just filling the gap left by missing teeth. They play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and enhancing your quality of life. This includes:

• Improved appearance and confidence due to a restored smile.
• Enhanced ability to chew and speak properly.
• Prevention of remaining teeth from shifting, which can lead to bite problems and further tooth loss.
• Support for facial structures, helping to maintain a youthful appearance.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation in Murrieta, CAIf you’re ready to restore your smile, Dr. Matthew Kanter in Murrieta, CA, offers expert dental bridge solutions tailored to your needs. Call (951) 677-7785 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.