Bridge

If you have missing permanent teeth that bother you and you’d like a full set of teeth and an exceptional smile, the experts at University Place Smiles in University Place, Washington, can help. The phenomenal dental team offers dental bridges to fill in empty gaps and give you the smile you long for and deserve. Call the office to find out if you’re a candidate for a bridge, or use the online booking feature today.

What is a bridge?

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth attached to adjacent teeth via dental crowns. It replaces a missing permanent tooth. Some bridges attach to dental implants, which are metal posts that take the place of natural tooth roots. 

You may have a missing tooth because of severe decay, infection, damage, or extraction. 

What are the advantages of dental bridges?

The benefits associated with dental bridges at University Place Smiles include:

• Clearer speech
• Easier chewing
• Full set of natural-looking teeth
• No tooth gaps
• Less risk of adjacent tooth shifting
• Long-lasting results
• Beautiful smile

Bridges look and function like natural teeth, which means other people won’t notice you have them in your mouth. Bridges are strong, sturdy, and long-lasting.

Is a bridge right for me?

The University Place Smiles team determines if you’re a candidate for dental bridges after reviewing your oral health history, examining your gums and teeth, and assessing the results of your dental X-rays. They ask about your desired results and treatment preferences before tailoring a restorative dental treatment plan best suited to your needs.

What happens when receiving a bridge?

Receiving a dental bridge often requires two separate dental visits. Your dentist first prepares your adjacent natural teeth, allowing the bridge to fit comfortably over each tooth. They then take an impression of your natural teeth. That allows technicians at a dental lab to develop a custom bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. 

In the meantime, you can wear a temporary tooth restoration, so you don’t have to live with a gap in your mouth while your permanent bridge is being made.

If you’re a candidate for an implant-supported bridge, your first appointment consists of minor surgery to implant a metal post into your jawbone.

During subsequent dental appointments, the University Place Smiles team fits your bridge over your natural teeth or attaches it to the dental implant. Your dentist makes sure the bridge fits properly and comfortably.

What should I expect after bridge placement?

After you receive a bridge, take good care of it by adopting excellent oral hygiene habits at home and seeing the University Place Smiles team at least every six months for professional teeth cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects and call the University Place Smiles office if your bridge gets damaged or you develop decay on any remaining natural teeth.

To find out if you’re a candidate for a dental bridge at University Place Smiles, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.