Missing or damaged teeth can make you feel self-conscious and impair your ability to speak and eat. The expert team at Celebrity Smiles in West Melbourne, Florida, headed up by Anand Shah, DMD, offers dental bridges to restore your teeth’s natural look and function. Call the office to schedule a consultation today and learn if a bridge is the right treatment for you.
request an appointmentWhat are dental bridges?
Dental bridges are a solution when you have a missing tooth or set of missing teeth. They consist of two crowns that are bonded to your natural teeth or are affixed to implants.
These crowns hold a false tooth or set of teeth to create a “bridge” in the space where teeth are missing. These crowns act as stabilizers for the bridge.
Bridges are made from porcelain that matches the natural shade and shape of your teeth. They fit in seamlessly with your smile.
Why should I consider a bridge?
A bridge is an effective way to restore and improve your smile. A bridge also helps:
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Improve your ability to chew and speak properly
- Distribute the forces in your bite properly
A bridge can prevent the teeth that surround a gap from shifting into the empty space. It also preserves your natural smile structure, limiting your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Dr. Shah customizes the type of bridge you need depending on the location of the gaps in your smile.
What is it like to get a bridge?
Of course, the exact procedure depends on the type of bridge you’re getting. For a traditional bridge, the most common type, your first appointment involves filing down any natural teeth adjacent to the missing teeth to make room for the anchoring crowns. Dr. Shah then adheres the custom-made crowns to the affected teeth.
How do I care for a bridge?
You care for your dental bridge just as you do your natural teeth. Brush twice daily and floss once per day. Come into Celebrity Smiles for your regular check-ups and professional cleanings.
Bridges can last a lifetime if you care for them properly. The one exception would be Maryland bonded bridges, which have the potential to weaken and may require repair or replacement. Dr. Shah thoroughly discusses all of your options and helps you determine the best bridge for your particular dental situation.
If you’re missing a tooth or teeth, call Celebrity Smiles to learn how a dental bridge may help you.