Dr. Amanda Smith of Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry in Nashua, NH provide patients with solutions for enhancing their smiles even when missing teeth have caused an aesthetic and functional disruption. Our professionals find that smile rehabilitation is easy with restorations such as dental bridges. This treatment is often recommended to patients who are missing one or more teeth within the dental arch and are seeking an affordable and effective solution.
Understanding dental bridges
A dental bridge is a restoration that is used to replace one tooth or several teeth in a row within the dental arch. This restoration is made of porcelain, a material commonly used today in dentistry for repairs because of its close match to natural tooth enamel and its strength. Using restorations such as bridges within the smile is highly desirable because they integrate so well with the natural teeth. The porcelain is matched in color, shape, and size with the existing teeth for a seamless appearance.
Dental bridges are made with false teeth called pontics and dental crowns on each side, which are used to anchor the restoration place. Dental bridges replace one or more teeth in the dental arch. They are called bridges because they “bridge the gap” left by missing teeth. These restorations are permanently placed and are fabricated to match the rest of the smile.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
Dental bridges are:
- Permanent
- Affordable
- Effective
- Used for multiple teeth
- Natural-looking
- Fast
Patients who have dental bridges love the ability to improve their smile without having to pay the expense of dental implants or deal with removable partial dentures. The dental bridge is highly desirable for many of our patients as it is a wonderful “middle of the road” solution for missing teeth.
Who is a candidate?
Any patient who is missing one or more teeth from the dental arch and has adjacent teeth available to support the dental bridge may want to ask about using this restoration for their specific needs. Patients who do not have supporting teeth can consider the placement of a dental implant as an anchor, but this can be a costly alternative. A dentist who has evaluated the smile can recommend what is appropriate for one’s needs.
How to care for a dental bridge
Dental bridges can last a long time when patients properly care for them. It is essential that patients take great care in brushing and flossing their teeth after every meal. Dental bridges also need to be flossed underneath the false tooth to keep food particles from becoming trapped. When patients have their dental bridges bonded into place, Dr. Amanda Smith, will educate patients on how to care of their new dental restoration. During this time, patients can practice with flossing and brushing their bridge, and can ask questions about ways to extend the lifespan of their dental bridges. For example, if a patient suffers from bruxism, which can cause patients to inadvertently clench and grind their teeth, they may want to ask about the use of a special night guard. A night guard can be worn over the dental arch at night to offer protection to keep the natural teeth and dental restorations from breaking due to the tension. Patients will be able to brush and floss their teeth as normal with a dental bridge in place.
How long will a dental bridge last?
Most bridges will last approximately a decade, or more, with proper care and attention. Patients should visit their dentist regularly for six-month examinations to monitor oral health and wellness.
Schedule a visit today!
At Nashua Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry, we help Nashua, NH area patients achieve the smile they’ve always wanted, even when tooth loss has become an issue. Dr. Amanda Smith provides patients the care they need, including dental bridges. Contact the office located at 1 Trafalgar Square, Suite #103 at (855) 363-3793. We welcome patients to book their visit to find out how we can restore their smiles!
