Dental Bridges in Fairfield
If you’re embarrassed by your missing teeth — or if you just wish you could chew without worrying about hurting your gums — a dental bridge might be right for you. This restorative treatment can provide a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing way to fill in that gap in your smile. Let’s talk more about dental bridges in Fairfield and all the advantages they offer.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
There are a few different types of dental bridges:
- A traditional bridge has two crowns that fit over the teeth that are adjacent to the gap in your smile. Between the crowns is an artificial tooth (or teeth) that fills in the empty space.
- An implant-supported bridge doesn’t have crowns that fit over your existing natural teeth. Rather, it’s supported by small titanium posts that your dentist surgically places in your jaw.
- A cantilever bridge is only supported by your natural teeth on one side. This type of bridge isn’t very common because it tends not to offer the same level of strength as traditional and implant-supported bridges.
- A Maryland bonded bridge involves a metal or porcelain framework that your dentist attaches to the teeth on just one side of the gap.
The type of bridge that’s best for you may depend on your oral health, how many teeth you’re missing, and where in your mouth you have a space that needs to be filled. We’ll talk to you about your options and recommend a treatment that we believe is appropriate for your circumstances.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?
Bridges offer numerous potential advantages:
- Because they’re usually made of porcelain, they can look very natural in your mouth.
- Since porcelain is a strong material, a bridge can last for many years; the average lifespan of a traditional bridge is about 10 years. If you opt for an implant-supported bridge, it could even last for the rest of your life.
- Bridges can prevent your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of place.
- They’re strong enough to allow you to enjoy most (or perhaps all) of your favorite foods with gusto.
- They help to properly distribute the bite force in your mouth, reducing the risk of damage and extra wear and tear on your natural chompers.
What Is the Process Like for Getting a Dental Bridge?
The exact process for getting a dental bridge depends on the type of bridge that’s best for you. Generally, this method of restoring your smile takes at least two visits to your dentist in Fairfield. During the first visit, we’ll prepare your mouth and take the necessary measurements to make sure your bridge fits you well. Later, your new teeth will be installed; our hope is that you walk away with a smile that makes you feel like a million bucks!
If you have any questions about dental bridges or other tooth replacement methods, please get in touch with us. We’d be happy to chat with you about this remarkable and effective restorative treatment.