Bridges

If you have a tooth extracted, there are many ways that it can be replaced. If you have one missing tooth or a few in a row that are missing, one solution is to get a dental bridge. This solution is a great way to replace teeth, and the results look like your natural teeth.

Dr. MacConnell and the Center for Family & Implant Dentistry offer bridge options for our patients to restore a beautiful, functioning smile.

Replacing Teeth With a Bridge

A dental bridge includes a bridge held between two or more crowns. The bridge portion fits into the area of missing teeth for proper mouth function and full smiles. The crowns used to anchor the bridge are placed by fitting them over your own teeth. The bridge can also be held in place by dental implants when needed.

Putting a bridge in place is a less-invasive method than getting dentures. A bridge is highly effective and very durable. They can last for many years as long as they are well cared for.

What To Expect When Getting a Bridge

Getting a dental bridge requires several office visits.

The first step is to prepare the teeth that will be the anchors of the bridge so that crowns can cover them. Those teeth have to be made smaller so that a crown that looks like your tooth can be placed. Dr. MacConnell will make the teeth smaller to be the perfect size and fit for crowns.

After this preparation, a temporary bridge is created for you to wear while the permanent bridge gets made.

In the next visit to the Bluff City or Kingsport office, the permanent bridge will be complete and you will be able to have it fitted to your anchor teeth. The dentist then assesses the bridge and ensures a good fit and proper bite. Our dentist may need to make a few small adjustments to it for the perfect fit.

Once your dental bridge has been installed, you will care for it just the way you do your natural teeth, brushing and flossing daily. You may be given a special flosser to use under it to clear away food. Dr. MacConnell and our team will talk to you about caring for it, and you can ask any questions at that time.

Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?

When you have a missing tooth or two, choosing the manner of tooth restoration can be difficult. When you consult with Dr. MacConnell, he can assess which method may be best for you and talk about dental implants and bridges.

Patients who have been without a tooth or teeth for a while have bone loss, which can mean that they aren’t good candidates for dental implants without a bone graft. Many patients simply don’t want to wait for months to replace the tooth, and a bridge might be a smart choice for them.

A dental bridge is a permanent solution to replacing teeth. Many patients choose this method over partial dentures because of this permanence. They don’t want to take out a prosthesis and clean it. A dental bridge is highly convenient, and it looks great.

Restore Your Smile With a Dental Bridge

If you’re interested in getting a dental bridge to replace teeth, call the Center for Family & Implant Dentistry. We will schedule a consultation with the dentist to discuss possible solutions for a healthy mouth and full, bright smile.