At Dental Associates Of Manchester, we’re committed to providing comprehensive restorative dentistry services that meet the needs and exceed the expectations of our patients in Manchester, Iowa. Among our specialized services, dental bridges offer a durable solution for replacing missing teeth, enhancing both function and aesthetics.
Exploring the World of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a cornerstone of restorative dentistry designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Comprised of two or more crowns on either side of the gap (these anchoring teeth are known as abutment teeth) and a false tooth/teeth in between, bridges can be made from various materials including porcelain, gold, alloys, or a combination. Our skilled dentists at Dental Associates Of Manchester, including Dr. Timothy Collier, DDS, Dr. Zachary Stecklein, DDS, and Dr. Luke Butikofer, DDS, emphasize that selecting the right material depends on the location of the missing tooth, aesthetic considerations, and function.
The Benefits Dental Bridges Bring
- Restored smile: Bridges help in restoring your smile to its natural state.
- Improved chewing ability: Replacing missing teeth with dental bridges improves your ability to chew efficiently.
- Enhanced speech and pronunciation: Missing teeth can affect your speech; bridges help in restoring speech clarity.
- Maintaining facial shape: Bridges prevent facial sagging by supporting your jaw’s natural structure.
- Bite force distribution: By replacing missing teeth, bridges help distribute your bite force properly.
Your Journey Towards Getting Dental Bridges
The process of getting dental bridges usually involves two main appointments. Initially, the abutment teeth are prepared by recontouring these teeth and taking impressions to create a model from which the bridge will be made. A temporary bridge is set up to protect exposed areas while your custom bridge is crafted. During your second visit at Dental Associates Of Manchester, this temporary bridge is removed and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be adjusted and cemented to achieve a proper fit.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Your experience with dental bridges will involve adapting to the feel of the new appliance in your mouth. It’s normal for it to feel a little odd until you become accustomed to it. However, with proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last many years. Regular check-ups with our team ensure that your bridge remains in excellent condition and continues to function as intended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do dental bridges last?
With good oral hygiene practices and regular checkups, dental bridges can last 5-15 years or even longer.
Is getting a bridge painful?
The procedure itself is not painful thanks to local anesthesia; however, some mild discomfort may be experienced after the procedure.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes! After a short adjustment period, you should be able to eat normally.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice daily and flossing are essential. Also attending regular check-ups at Dental Associates Of Manchester will help maintain your bridge.
If you have further questions about dental bridges or wish to schedule an appointment with our skilled dentists, please call us at 563-927-4746. Let us help you reclaim your smile!
The information provided on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.