Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges in Ballantyne
Dentists use dental bridges to replace a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. Bridges are utilized to provide the appearance and function of natural teeth when tooth decay or trauma has rendered an existing tooth unworkable.
A traditional bridge is placed using crowns laid over abutment teeth, while a Maryland bridge is implanted by placing metal or porcelain on the back sides of teeth on either side of the missing tooth. Our dentist places dental bridges in Ballantyne, NC to allow teeth and gums to function normally following the loss of a tooth.

Purpose
Although natural teeth are preferred, a fixed bridge can improve functionality and appearance after being bonded to the surrounding teeth. With proper care, a bridge can successfully replace a tooth or teeth without increasing the likelihood of developing gum disease and without requiring the use of dental implants.

Procedure
There are three common types of bridges: implant-supported bridges, Maryland bridges, and traditional bridges. Implant-supported bridges involve placing a titanium implant in the jaw bone before placing a bridge. Maryland bridges bond bridges to teeth using only a thin strip of metal or a composite material. Traditional bridges use crowns over the abutment teeth to hold the bridge firmly in place.

Aftercare
After a bridge is placed, it is important to keep the area clean. Bridges rest on top of teeth and gums, with the exception of implant-supported bridges, and can trap food and debris without proper oral hygiene practices. Brush and floss the area carefully to make sure that decay does not affect abutment teeth and gum disease does not develop beneath the bridge.
At Aten & Garofalo Dentistry, we provide restorative dental services in Ballantyne, NC. In addition, we offer general and cosmetic dentistry to help our patients maintain their beautiful, healthy smiles. Whether you have lost a tooth or have had several teeth extracted, we are here for your dental care needs.
We customize dental bridge treatment plans and services based on our patients’ needs, preferences, and budgets. Before forging ahead with a dental bridge, we will answer any questions you may have and provide pros and cons for the procedure.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Dental bridges are devices used to replace a lost tooth, whether that tooth fell out or was extracted. Bridges are nestled between partial dentures and tooth implants with regard to their invasive nature and provide a permanent and functional alternative to the temporary placement of dentures and the permanent placement of dental implants.
Dental bridges can be a great solution for anyone who has healthy teeth on either side of a lost tooth (or multiple teeth), and those who do not have the bone tissue necessary to qualify for a dental implant. Placing a bridge is not a surgical procedure and is considered a safe treatment option.
Dental bridges do not require invasive methods to be placed. They can also be placed using same-day technology. Dental bridges afford dental patients with the same comfort and use as dental implants without the discomfort and healing period unique to implants.
Unlike dentures and implants, bridges cannot be used to replace a large number of missing teeth. Bridges are designed specifically to utilize the teeth on either side of a missing tooth or a series of missing teeth using crowns, implants, or a porcelain or metal framework. If the teeth on either side of a gap are not healthy, the dental patient in question will not be a candidate for a bridge.