Dental Bridges for a Better Smile
Dr. Joshua Ferraro uses dental bridges to fill gaps from missing teeth, improving both appearance and function. Untreated gaps can lead to crowding, bacteria buildup, gum disease, and cavities. Replacing missing teeth is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Our dentists in Plant City, FL also link missing teeth to jaw pain (TMJ disorder).
At our Plant City, FL office, you can choose a custom-made bridge attached to crowns or implants. Our experienced team is here to help you decide the best option for your smile.
Why Do I Need a Bridge?
Patients need a dental bridge when they have multiple missing teeth or when the gap left by missing teeth causes crowding. The space from a missing tooth becomes more prone to infection, and crowded teeth are harder to clean, leading to the buildup of bacteria and plaque. This can result in undesirable oral health issues. Crowding can also put stress on the jaw joints, potentially leading to TMJ disorder, which causes headaches, neck and shoulder stiffness, migraines, and significant discomfort.
In addition to the functional benefits, dental bridges offer cosmetic advantages. A missing tooth can detract from your smile, which is often the first thing others notice. A full, healthy smile boosts confidence and makes you appear healthier. If you're self-conscious about the gap in your smile, consult with one of our experienced dentists about getting a dental bridge to restore both the function and beauty of your smile.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to fill the gap left by multiple missing teeth. It consists of a dental crown on each end, with pontic teeth (artificial teeth) in between. For a more permanent solution, the bridge can be attached to dental implants. Custom-made for each patient, dental bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Pontic teeth are typically made from porcelain, ensuring they are stain-resistant and match the color of your natural teeth.
Possible Attachments
Typically, we attach your custom dental bridge to crowns, placing them over the teeth on either side of the gap for a secure and long-lasting fit. This requires removing a thin layer of enamel to create a smooth surface for the restoration. Crowns are custom-made to resemble natural teeth and also help restore weakened or damaged teeth.
For a more secure option, some patients opt for implant-retained bridges. In this procedure, Dr. Joshua Ferraro surgically places a titanium implant into the jawbone. After the implant fuses with the bone (usually 4-6 months), the bridge is permanently attached.
Implant-retained bridges are ideal for long-term use, but candidates should have a healthy jawbone and not smoke. If necessary, bone grafting may be performed, and we will refer you to a specialist for this.