If you are missing one or several teeth, our team at Brighter Smile Family Dentistry and Orthodontics can work with you to explore your tooth replacement options. Depending on your needs, we may offer a custom dental bridge in Sterling, VA. A dental bridge can help restore function and beauty to your smile. They bridge the gap between missing teeth.
A traditional dental bridge is two dental crowns that are supported by the adjacent teeth. The dental bridge is then attached to artificial teeth which help fill the gap created by missing teeth. For a more secure solution, patients can receive an implant-supported dental bridge.
An implant-supported dental bridge is fixed to dental implants instead of the natural teeth; this can help preserve more of the natural tooth structure and protect the integrity of the surrounding teeth.
Choosing An Implant Supported Dental Bridge
If you are missing none or several consecutive teeth an implant-supported dental bridge may be right for you.
At your consultation, Dr. Kavianpour will examine your teeth, gums, and jaw bone to determine if an implant-supported dental bridge or traditional dental bridge is right for you.
Implant-supported dental bridges offer these key benefits:
- Restores the ability to chew and bite comfortably
- Can help prevent facial sagging due to tooth loss
- Preserves more of the natural tooth structure
- Supports a functional and healthy smile
- Replaces the natural tooth root
- Stimulates the jaw bone and minimizes the risk of bone loss
- Offers a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to tooth loss
What Happens During The Dental Bridge Process?
To receive a dental bridge, it will require 2-3 visits to our Sterling, VA dental practice. Before treatment, Dr. Kavianpour will assess your teeth, gums, and bone structure. From there, we will build a comprehensive treatment plan that is right for you.
If dental implants are being placed, we will coordinate the surgical phase of your treatment in our dental practice. The implants take 3-6 months to heal before we place your custom dental bridge.
For traditional bridges, our team will prepare the neighboring teeth and fit them for dental crowns. Next, we will take impressions of your teeth which will be sure to create your custom crowns and dental bridge. During the fabrication process, we may place a temporary bridge to keep your teeth protected.
At your final appointment, we remove the temporary bridge and place the custom dental bridge. The specifics of your treatment plan will depend on your unique needs. Dr. Kavianpour and our team will keep you informed throughout all phases of your care.
Dental Bridge Aftercare Tips
Proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of dental bridges. Here are some important aftercare tips for dental bridges:
To help maintain your dental bridge so that it lasts for many years, you need to take good care of it. Proper aftercare tips for dental bridges include:
- Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid tooth decay and gum disease
- Avoid foods that could damage the bridge such as hard, sticky, or chewy foods
- Never skip a dental check up
- If you suffer from teeth grinding, take all measures to treat it including wearing a mouthguard to protect the bridge
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to help maintain oral health
- If you have a dental health concern, address it right away
Dental Bridge FAQs
Here are some common dental bridge frequently asked questions along with their answers. We want our patients to feel confident about the treatments they are receiving. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to call our office during regular business hours.
How many teeth are in a dental bridge?
The amount of teeth in a dental bridge varies between 1 to 4 from patient to patient. The size of the bridge is dependent on the size of the gap. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge. Bridges must be surrounded on either side by natural teeth, so their sizes may vary.
Will my diet have to change if I get a dental bridge?
With a dental bridge, most patients resume their normal diet a few days after the dental crown procedure. Some foods put patients at a higher risk for issues. These include foods that are hard or chewy like candy, and drinks such as soda, coffee, and wine.
Are dental bridges removable?
Dental bridges can be removable depending on the type of bridge you get. They come in two forms. Bridges are removable or fixed in your mouth. If you want to be able to remove your bridge then making sure to avoid fixed bridges may be the best option for you.
How long does a dental bridge last?
If you take good care of your dental restoration and your oral hygiene, a dental bridge can last for many years. On average, a dental bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer. However, individual factors such as the patient’s oral hygiene practices, wear and tear, diet, and overall health can affect the longevity of a dental bridge.
Is getting a dental bridge a painful procedure?
Getting a dental bridge is not a painless process. Local anesthesia is usually administered to numb the area before the bridge preparation and placement. This is simply because your dentist will need to prepare the adjacent teeth for the crowns which requires removing some of the tooth structure. During this, some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity. You will feel some pressure. After the placement of the bridge and once the anesthetic wears off, you may feel sore or mild discomfort, but it is usually temporary.
Can a dental bridge be replaced if it becomes damaged or worn out?
Yes, if you damage your dental bridge or if it becomes worn down, we can replace it. We will simply remove the old bridge and fit you for a new one. A dental lab will fabricate the new one to ensure proper function and aesthetics. It’s important to consult with a dentist if you suspect any issues with your dental bridge.
Replace Missing Teeth With A Dental Bridge in Sterling, VA
Do you want to regain your dental function and improve the appearance of your smile? Visit our Sterling, VA dental practice to explore your tooth replacement options. Dr. Kavianpour can work with you to determine if a dental bridge or another type of tooth replacement option is right for you. To schedule an appointment, call 703.444.3412 or request an appointment online.