Bridges

Replacing missing teeth is essential for a number of reasons. Teeth that are lost or extracted can result in a large space in a patient’s smile. This can affect one’s ability to speak, chew, and bite properly. Additionally, the surrounding teeth may shift into the gap and cause spacing throughout the patient’s dental arch. It is important to address missing natural teeth as soon as possible to maintain the cosmetic appearance and functionality of the smile.

There are several options available for patients who are missing teeth in regards to restoration. Patients who seek a removable restoration may opt for a partial denture. Those who want a permanent restoration may consider dental implants. Others can benefit from a restoration called a dental bridge. This restoration is made of porcelain and stretches across the gap. It has a false tooth (called a pontic) between two dental crowns to replace the missing tooth. The bridge is bonded over the adjacent teeth to restore a smile. Patients with dental bridges are instructed on the proper methods of cleaning and maintaining them to last many years. Patients with dental bridges will require regular dental recall appointments and examinations to ensure that problems such as tooth decay are not occurring on the teeth anchoring the dental bridge.

The process generally begins with the dentist preparing the teeth on either side of the gap by reducing the size and shaping them so that they can support the bridge firmly and comfortably. Next, an impression is made of the teeth. This information is sent to the dental lab where Dr. Löberg will create the restoration for placement with same day dentistry. Patients will be able to have their bridge placed during a quick and simple appointment and will walk out of the dental office with a brand new smile!

Dr. Löberg will often recommend bridges for patients who don’t want a removable restoration such as a denture, or who are not candidates for dental implants. This economical solution to tooth loss can help patients maintain their smile and aesthetic appearance.