If you are missing teeth, your smile is restored and your oral health is enhanced through a dental bridge. Dental bridges in Devon are the preferred option by most people to cover the spaces that are left due to missing teeth. A bridge is composed of false teeth that are supported by crowns on neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. It is an easy procedure and often takes a few dental visits.
Step 1: First Visit For Dental Bridge Examination
The first process before the acquisition of a dental bridge includes visiting your dentist. Your dentist will examine your teeth, mouth, and gums in an attempt to determine whether a bridge will suit you. Your dentist could choose to do X-rays or impressions of the teeth to evaluate your oral makeup. At this time your dentist will go over the types of bridges available including traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges.
Step 2: Preparing the Abutment Teeth
After you have made up your mind to go for a dental bridge, the second step is preparing the abutment teeth. These are the natural teeth on either side of the space that will hold the bridge. Your dentist will prepare these teeth by removing a small amount of the enamel to make room for the crowns. This process makes the bridge fit securely and comfortably.
Step 3: Taking Impressions
Once the abutment teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions or digital impressions of your teeth. These impressions are then sent to a dental laboratory, where highly trained technicians craft a custom bridge that is a perfect match for your natural teeth in terms of shape, size, and color. It takes a few weeks for the permanent bridge to be fabricated.
Step 4: Temporary Bridge Placement
Until your permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will fit you with a temporary bridge to cover up the exposed gums and teeth. Your temporary bridge will enable you to eat and speak normally as your permanent bridge is being manufactured. Nevertheless, be careful not to consume hard or sticky foods that might push out the temporary bridge.
Step 5: Fitting the Permanent Bridge
After the permanent bridge is prepared, you will go back to the dentist for the implant to be placed. The dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check on the fit of the new one. To make sure there is no discomfort and a good bite, they will modify any part of the bridge to fit properly. When happy with the fit, the bridge is cemented into the mouth.
Step 6: Final Adjustments and Follow-Up
Your dentist will request that you come in for a check-up visit after a few days to verify the fit and comfort of the bridge. They will make slight adjustments if necessary. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort should be expected for the first couple of days, but this should fade as you settle into the bridge.
Taking Care of Your Dental Bridge
To extend the life of your dental bridge and to keep your mouth in good health, proper care must be taken. The following are some important care tips:
- Brush your teeth two times a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss once a day, using a floss threader to clean under the bridge.
- Do not chew on hard foods or ice which can cause the bridge to break.
- Check-ups and cleanings by your dentist at regular intervals.
Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is an excellent option for restoring your smile and enhancing your chewing and speaking capabilities. If you are searching for a dentist near you to assist with missing teeth, Devon Dental Associates provides professional dental care and customized solutions.
Our skilled team is here to assist you through the process and provide you with a good outcome. Contact us today to arrange your consultation and begin your journey to a healthier smile!