Sandy Springs Dental Bridges
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are fixed dental restorations that effectively replace one or more missing teeth. They generally consist of two or more crowns (abutment teeth) on either side of a gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. The false teeth (pontics) can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or dental implants, making them a stable and long-lasting solution.
Imagine regaining the ability to smile without hesitation, eat your favorite foods without discomfort, and speak clearly and confidently. Dental bridges allow you to achieve just that. At Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry, our team routinely provides top-notch care that helps patients feel confident in the health and appearance of their smiles. For dental bridges in Sandy Springs, you cannot go wrong with choosing us.
Schedule a consultation by calling (678) 846-3976 or reaching out online. We accept most insurances and can arrange payment plans.
Have Questions?
-
What is the dental bridge procedure like?A dental bridge can usually be completed in 2 appointments, the first appointment is a bit longer, about 2 hours and this is to prepare the teeth next to the missing tooth and make a temporary. The next appointment is 3 weeks later when the final bridge is placed in the mouth with final cement.
-
How long does it take to get used to a dental bridge?A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth, so getting used to having a tooth in a spot that used to be empty can take about a week as the surrounding structures like your tongue, cheek, and other teeth get used to having a new tooth in the mouth.
-
How long will my dental bridge last?The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the patient's oral hygiene habits, and the forces that the bridge is subjected to over time. With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can last for 5 to 15 years or even longer.
-
What is the process of getting a dental bridge?The teeth next to the missing teeth are anesthetized so that nothing is felt during the duration of the procedure, these teeth are prepared and a temporary is put in that same day.
-
What are the different types of dental bridges?There are several types of dental bridges, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bridges. Traditional bridges are the most common and involve creating a crown for the abutment teeth on either side of the gap and placing the pontic between them. Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth to support the pontic, while Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth with resin.
-
What are the benefits of dental bridges?A form of tooth replacement therapy that does not require surgery, like an implant, and it stays in your mouth as a fixed tooth replacement rather than a removable tooth replacement.
-
What are dental bridges?A dental bridge is a type of tooth replacement therapy that replaces a tooth by adjusting the teeth next to the missing tooth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, that are anchored in place by attaching them to adjacent natural teeth. The adjacent teeth that support the bridge are called abutments.
What are the different types of dental bridges?
We offer three main types of dental bridges to meet your specific needs:
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common type. They involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. These bridges are typically made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics, providing a strong and aesthetically pleasing result.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are an option when adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. While less common, they are viable in specific cases where traditional bridges are not.
Maryland Bonded Bridges
Maryland bonded bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, consist of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. We bond metal or porcelain wings on one side of the bridge to your existing teeth. Performing Maryland bonded bridges requires minimal preparation of neighboring teeth, especially compared to traditional bridges.
Dental Bridges vs. Crowns
Dental bridges and crowns differ in a few significant ways. Bridges fill gaps between natural teeth, while crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover weakened or damaged teeth. It is important to note that dental bridges require crowns, which is why the two are often associated in peoples’ minds.
What Is the Process for Getting a Dental Bridge?
Here at Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry, we do everything possible to make getting a dental bridge comfortable and stress-free. Our office’s doctor, Amara Collett, and supporting staff are dedicated to meeting patient needs and providing outstanding care.
First Visit: Preparation
During this visit, we will:
- Prepare the abutment teeth: Dr. Amara will carefully remove a portion of the abutment teeth’s enamel to create space for the crowns.
- Impressions: Our team will take precise impressions of your teeth, which will help us craft your custom bridge.
- Temporary bridge: To protect your prepared teeth and gums, we will place a temporary bridge. It will allow you to eat, drink, and speak comfortably while your permanent bridge is being made.
Second Visit: Fitting
During your second visit, we will:
- Remove the temporary bridge: Our team performs this step with care to ensure the process continues seamlessly.
- Fitting the new bridge: Dr. Amara will check and adjust your new bridge to make certain it fits perfectly. Follow-up visits may be necessary to fine-tune the fit and deliver perfect results.
- Final placement: If the bridge fits as it should, Dr. Amara will permanently bond it using dental cement.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care and maintenance, your dental bridge should remain strong for five to fifteen years. How can you protect your dental bridge?
Consider these five tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. While this step may seem simple, it is crucial for maintaining the strength of your dental bridge and health of your natural teeth.
- Clean under your dental bridge using a floss threader and an interdental toothbrush. Doing so prevents bacteria and plaque from accumulating and causing issues with your bridge.
- Rinse your mouth with a fluoride rinse. This can strengthen your gumline and protect you from bacteria buildup.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that might dislodge or damage your bridge. Generally, opt for softer foods and cut tough items into smaller, manageable pieces.
- Schedule regular appointments with your dentist. Checkups and cleanings are essential for sustaining your dental health and addressing any issues before they compound.
Schedule an Appointment at Boutique for Cosmetic Dentistry
Have you been struggling with everyday tasks because of missing teeth? Do you feel less confident in your smile because of a gap? Getting a dental bridge could be the right solution for you. Contact our office to determine your candidacy for a dental bridge and discuss the next steps for restoring your teeth. From Sandy Springs, we serve Fulton County and other areas in the North Metro Atlanta area.
Get in touch with us by calling (678) 846-3976 or submitting our online contact form.