Missing teeth can change your bite and the aesthetics of your smile. If you have one or more missing teeth, our dentist can help you know how a dental bridge can make a difference in your oral health and smile! Dr. Greg Sefcik is skilled in creating dental restorations, and he can ensure that your dental bridge fits your smile properly and resembles your natural teeth. Contact us at 303-657-9000 to learn more about our dental bridges in Westminster, Colorado, and to make an appointment.
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge might be the solution to restore your smile and oral health. A dental bridge is a fixed restoration, meaning it is permanently placed in your mouth and cannot be removed. It is designed to bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
A dental bridge typically consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. These anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth, and a false tooth or teeth, known as pontics, are placed in between. The pontics can be made from gold, alloys porcelain or a combination of these materials to match the natural color of your teeth.
Dental bridges offer several benefits, including:
- Restoring Your Smile: A dental bridge can fill the space left by missing teeth, giving you a complete and natural-looking smile.
- Maintaining Facial Shape: Missing teeth can cause your face to look sunken. A bridge helps maintain the natural shape of your face.
- Improving Bite Function: With a bridge, you can chew food more effectively, reducing stress on your remaining teeth.
- Preventing Tooth Shifting: When you lose a tooth, the adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment. A bridge prevents this movement.
- Enhancing Speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech. A dental bridge can help you speak more clearly.
The process of getting a dental bridge usually requires two visits to our office. During the first visit, our dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a portion of enamel to make room for the crowns. We then take impressions of your teeth, which serve as a model for creating your custom bridge. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums while your permanent bridge is being made.
At your second visit, our dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check the fit and color of the permanent bridge. If everything looks good, we cement the bridge in place, restoring your smile and function.
A dental bridge is a durable solution that can last many years with proper care. To ensure its longevity, maintain good oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing daily, and attend regular dental checkups.
We are here to help you determine if a dental bridge is the right option for your dental needs. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation. Your smile and satisfaction are our top priorities.