If you have missing teeth, we have several options to restore your smile. Depending on your tooth loss, you may be a candidate for dental bridges. Dr. Maria Benefield will carefully match the bridge to fit the original tooth, helping provide a stable foundation for a brilliant smile. We invite you to call Sandy Springs Dentistry at 404-252-1216 to schedule a consultation or learn more about dental crowns and dental bridge treatment in Atlanta or Sandy Springs, GA.
Dental bridges are one of the most common restorative dentistry treatments for replacing and restoring missing or damaged teeth. During your initial consultation at our office, our dentist will carefully examine your mouth to determine if this treatment is a good option for you.
Dental Bridges in Atlanta, GA
Dental bridges are replacements for missing teeth. When you lose a tooth, your remaining teeth can shift out of position, causing you to develop a bad bite and making it more difficult for you to chew and speak normally. A dental bridge will literally “bridge” the gap in your smile to keep your teeth in the correct position, maintain a healthy bite, and give you back a beautiful smile.
Dental bridges are typically anchored in place by crowns attached to the teeth on either side of the prosthetic tooth but may also be supported by a dental implant.
Why Choose an Implant-Supported Bridge?
Dental implants are titanium posts that replace missing teeth at the root. They offer long-lasting resu
Stability: An implant-supported bridge is fixed in place using dental implants, which are placed directly into your jawbone. This makes it much more stable than traditional bridges, which rely on nearby teeth for support. You won’t have to worry about it shifting or coming loose when you eat or speak.
Implant-supported bridges are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. They can blend in well with the rest of your smile, giving you confidence when you talk or smile. With an implant-supported bridge, you can eat a wider variety of foods without worrying about damaging your dental work. This allows you to enjoy your favorite meals without restriction.
Dental implants also help keep your jawbone healthy. When you lose a tooth, the bone underneath can start to shrink. Implants act like natural tooth roots, helping to maintain the bone and prevent loss.
With proper care, implant-supported bridges can last for many years, often even a lifetime. This makes them a durable option for replacing missing teeth.
The Dental Bridge Process in Atlanta, GA
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves several steps:
Initial Consultation
The process begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Benefield. She will examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. We may also take X-rays or other imaging to assess the condition of your teeth and jawbone. Then, we will discuss your options for tooth replacement. This helps determine if a dental bridge is the right choice for you.
Treatment Planning
If a dental bridge is best for you, we will create a plan based on your needs and goals. We will consider the number of missing teeth, the location of the gap, and the condition of your adjacent teeth. If you want an implant-supported bridge, we will ensure that you have enough healthy jaw bone to support the implant posts.
Tooth Preparation or Implant Placement
To prepare for the bridge, we will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap. These teeth will be reshaped to make room for the dental crowns that will hold the bridge in place. This means we will remove a portion of the enamel to place the crown without adding bulk to the teeth.
If you receive implants to support your bridge, we will work with an oral surgeon to place the implant posts. The surgeon will place the implants in the jaw bone beneath the gums. It will take 3 to 6 months for the implant posts to fully heal.
Impressions
Once we prepare your teeth for a traditional bridge, we will take impressions of your teeth and gap. These impressions help us create a precise mold for the dental bridge, ensuring a custom fit. We will send the impressions to a dental lab where skilled technicians will create your custom bridge.
If you’re getting an implant bridge, we will make an impression once we place the abutments. These pieces connect the implant posts to the bridge. As with traditional bridge treatment, we will send impressions to a local dental lab for your custom bridge.
Bridge Fitting
At your next visit, our dentist will check the look and fit of the bridge. They will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment and bite. When the bridge fits perfectly, we will permanently cement or bond it into place.
How to Care for Bridges
After dental bridge treatment in our Atlanta, GA, dental office, remember to follow these tips:
Brush and Floss Daily
Just like with your natural teeth, you need to brush and floss your dental bridge every day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and bridge. Make sure to brush twice a day, especially around the bridge, to prevent plaque buildup.
Flossing around the bridge is also key. Use a floss threader or special floss designed for bridges to clean under the artificial tooth. This helps remove food particles and plaque that can get trapped underneath, keeping your gums healthy.
Watch What You Eat
Be careful with hard or sticky foods that can damage your dental bridge. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, or sticky candies like caramel. These can put pressure on the bridge and might cause it to loosen or break. If you get implant-supported bridges, it will be easier to eat these foods once you get used to your new restoration.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups ensure your bridge is in good condition and that your other teeth and gums are healthy. Our dentist will check to see if your bridge fits well and make adjustments if needed. We can also professionally clean around the bridge to remove plaque that’s hard to reach at home.
Restore Lost Teeth
Do you need to replace multiple missing teeth? Get a dental bridge in our Atlanta, GA, office today. Call 470-999-6489 or schedule an appointment with us online.