Fill Gaps Caused By 1 To 3 Missing Teeth
A dental bridge can restore your smile and oral health by covering spaces with a false tooth, supported by dental implants, natural teeth, or both. Known as a “fixed partial denture,” bridges are bonded to your teeth and don’t need removal for sleep or cleaning. Addressing tooth gaps is crucial not just for aesthetics but for your long-term oral health. Missing teeth can hinder speech and chewing, and gaps allow other teeth to shift.
Long-Lasting Benefits of Dental Bridges
A missing tooth or teeth can leave us feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable. A dental bridge is a great way to get your smile looking and feeling normal again, but it also offers long-term benefits for your other teeth and the bone health of your mouth. Here are the key advantages of a dental bridge:
Comfort
Dental bridges restore the natural feel and look of your smile, allowing you to eat and speak with confidence. Missing teeth can cause discomfort and make chewing or speaking difficult. With proper care, dental bridges provide a long-lasting solution, often lasting over ten years.
Tooth Health
Your teeth support each other and contribute to your facial structure. Missing teeth can alter your bite and create space for other teeth to shift. A dental bridge prevents this shifting, reducing the risk of decay, periodontal disease, jaw pain, and TMJ disorder caused by misaligned teeth.
Bone Health
Healthy, stable teeth promote a healthy jawbone. As dental health diminishes, so does the health of the bone and tissues that support teeth. Stabilizing your dental health with a dental bridge slows the rate of bone loss associated with missing teeth.
Contact Us Today
Schedule your initial consultation and exam to begin your journey to a healthier smile. During your visit, we’ll examine your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and the condition of your bite. We take a comprehensive approach to understand how your entire mouth looks and functions. Before planning your treatment, we want to learn about the health and aesthetics of your smile, and most importantly, your goals. Let us help you achieve the smile you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, dental bridges can last over ten years. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining their longevity.
The procedure is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used during tooth preparation, and patients may experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, especially around the bridge area. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important to ensure the bridge remains in good condition.
Most people with one or more missing teeth can be candidates for a dental bridge. However, the suitability of a dental bridge depends on the health of the remaining teeth and gums. A dental examination is necessary to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.
Alternatives to dental bridges include dental implants and removable partial dentures. Your dentist can help you decide which option is best for your situation based on your oral health, preferences, and budget.
Harry Haring, D.M.D.
Specialist in Prosthodontics
Your Dental Bridges Specialist in Prosthodontics
Dr. Harry Haring received his Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical science from Auburn University in 2013. He then went on to receive his Doctorate of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry in 2017, where he was awarded the American College of Dentists Student Leader Award for his outstanding leadership, scholastic performance, and potential for impact on the profession of dentistry.
Dr. Haring went on to complete an additional three-year specialty training program in prosthodontics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. This program focused on restoring and/or replacing missing teeth with an emphasis on complex rehabilitative care, such as highly esthetic cases and dental implants.
With his advanced education, in addition to his passion for esthetics and attention to detail, he is highly qualified to obtain natural results while ensuring the optimal health and longevity of his patient’s smiles.