Bridges Q & A with Dr. Kirby
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a dental device that restores your smile if you’re missing one or more teeth. It’s sometimes referred to as a fixed partial denture as it replaces missing natural teeth with artificial teeth to eliminate gaps.
What are the benefits of bridges?
A dental bridge provides numerous benefits, as it:
- Makes your smile more aesthetically pleasing
- Allows you to speak clearly
- Improves your ability to chew properly
- Restores the shape of your face
- Improves a misaligned bite
- Prevents natural teeth from shifting
Bridges are made of porcelain, alloys, gold, ceramics or combinations of these materials. They’re attached to surrounding teeth for support.
What are the different types of bridges?
During a thorough consultation, Dr. Kirby lets you know which type of bridge best matches your needs. There are several main types, including:
Removable bridges
You can take a removable bridge out of your mouth (like removable dentures) to clean it.
Fixed bridges
A fixed bridge isn’t removable and is attached firmly in place. Dr. Kirby may cement it to surrounding teeth using crowns.
Implant-supported bridges
Implant-supported bridges are attached to implants, which are metal posts surgically placed in your jaw bone.
What should I expect during a bridge placement?
Receiving a dental bridge is generally a two-step process. During your first visit, Dr. Kirby may:
- Reshape surrounding teeth to allow room for a crown-supported bridge
- Take impressions of your teeth
- Send impressions to a dental lab where working with Dr. Kirby, they create artificial teeth
- Give you a temporary bridge to protect your teeth
If you require dental implants, Dr. Kirby works with oral surgeons and periodontists to surgically place the implants and let the area heal before taking impressions of your teeth.
When your permanent bridge is ready, Dr. Kirby removes your temporary bridge and places the new bridge. If it’s a permanent bridge, he cements it in place.
How should I care for a bridge?
Caring for your bridge properly helps it last many years longer. Keep your bridge and natural teeth healthy by brushing twice daily and flossing every day. Attend regular professional teeth cleaning appointments as well. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other fiber-rich foods and avoid added sugar when possible.
When you’re ready to find out if a dental bridge can replace missing teeth and restore your smile, book a consultation with Charles Kirby, DMD by phone or online today.