9348 Grand Cordera Pkwy STE 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80924
Restoring Function and Esthetics When Missing a Tooth
Missing a tooth can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. It can also impact your ability to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain proper alignment of your remaining teeth. At Powers Dental Group, we offer dental bridges as a reliable and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and esthetics.
A dental bridge is a method to "bridge" the gap caused by a missing tooth. The most common type of bridge involves connecting the teeth surrounding the gap. The adjacent teeth are prepped in the same manner as a crown and are connected by a replacement tooth (called a pontic). Dental bridges look and feel natural, and they are designed to match your existing teeth in shape, size, and color. With proper care, a dental bridge can last for many years, helping you regain your confidence and enjoy life with a healthy, beautiful smile.
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Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional bridge uses the natural teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. These supporting teeth, called abutments, are reshaped to receive crowns that hold the replacement tooth in place. This is the most widely used option when the surrounding teeth are healthy enough to provide stable support.
Implant-Supported Bridges
When there are not enough teeth to support a bridge, an implant-supported bridge is an excellent option if you are a good candidate for implants. Implant-supported bridges are a very stable type of dental bridge and involve the use of dental implants to support the bridge.
Dental implants are titanium fixtures that are placed into the bone and allowed to heal. When the implants have fully healed and integrated, a digital scan is sent to the lab to create the bridge. The new bridge is then installed on top of the implants, which serve as anchors for the bridge. This is a great option for patients missing many teeth or those whose remaining teeth are not healthy enough to support a traditional bridge.
The Dental Bridge Process at Powers Dental Group
The preparation and procedure for a dental bridge will depend on the type of bridge being placed. Generally, the process involves the following steps:
Consultation and Examination
The dental team evaluates the gap, surrounding teeth, gums, and overall oral health to determine the best type of bridge for your needs.
1
Tooth Preparation
For a traditional bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap are carefully reshaped to receive the bridge. For an implant-supported bridge, implants are placed and allowed to heal and integrate with the jawbone.
2
Digital Scan or Impression
A precise digital scan or impression is taken and sent to the dental lab, where the bridge is custom-fabricated to match your bite and natural tooth color.
3
Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent restoration is being created.
4
Bridge Placement
When the bridge arrives back from the lab, a special adhesive is used to secure it in place. The bridge is checked for proper fit and bite, and minor adjustments are made to ensure comfortable alignment.
5
Final Polishing
The bridge is polished and sealed to protect it from bacteria and decay, leaving you with a strong, natural-looking restoration.
6
Maintenance and Care for Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a great way to restore your smile and give you a beautiful, natural-looking set of teeth. However, it is important to take proper care and maintenance of dental bridges to ensure they last as long as possible. Good oral hygiene helps prevent damage and decay around the bridge and supports overall oral health.
In addition to routine brushing, there are three popular ways to clean under and around a dental bridge:
- Floss: You can use a floss threader to aid in running floss underneath your bridge.
- Water flosser: A water flosser will spray a jet of water under and around your bridge to flush out food debris.
- Dental bristle brush: These are small bristled brushes that offer a convenient way of brushing under and around your bridge.
At Powers Dental Group, we offer comprehensive restorative and maintenance dental services to the Cordera and greater Colorado Springs, CO community, including dental bridges. Our experienced team will provide personalized advice on how to best care for your dental bridge. Regular checkups and cleanings help ensure your bridge continues to function properly and remains in excellent condition. With consistent care, dental bridges can last for many years.
Restore Your Smile in Cordera
At Powers Dental Group, we understand the importance of a healthy and beautiful smile. That is why we offer a full range of dental services to help you achieve the smile you deserve. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best treatment options for your needs. Call us or fill out our contact form today to schedule a consultation.
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