Bridges

Tooth loss can have a significant impact on both your oral health and your self-esteem. Missing teeth affect how you chew, speak, and smile, and they can also lead to shifting teeth, bone loss, and further dental complications if left untreated. Fortunately, dental bridges offer a reliable solution to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

If you're seeking high-quality restorative dental care, bridges in Wells, ME, are an effective treatment provided by our experienced dentist in Wells, ME. Dental bridges restore your smile, help maintain your mouth's structure, and prevent other dental problems.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic device that replaces missing teeth by "bridging" the gap between remaining teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges are a popular and effective way to restore the aesthetics and function of your smile, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile confidently. 

There are several types of dental bridges, each designed to meet different dental needs. Our skilled dentist in Wells, ME, can recommend the best option for you based on the number of missing teeth and the condition of your surrounding teeth. Contact us at Nortey Dental for the best dental bridges to get the perfect smile you have always wanted.

Types of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges come in a few different types, each tailored to specific situations:

Traditional Dental Bridges

The most common type of dental bridge, a traditional bridge, consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) anchored by crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap. These adjacent teeth, called abutment teeth, must be healthy and strong enough to support the crowns. Traditional bridges are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, giving them a natural appearance that blends in with your surrounding teeth.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when only one adjacent tooth is available to anchor the bridge. This type of bridge is less common because it places more stress on the single abutment tooth, but it can be a suitable option in certain cases where a traditional bridge isn't viable.

Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, are a more conservative option. Instead of crowns, the artificial tooth is supported by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge requires less alteration to the surrounding teeth but may not be as strong as traditional bridges. Maryland bridges often replace front teeth where the forces exerted during chewing are not as strong.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are a great alternative for patients who do not have healthy adjacent teeth to support a traditional bridge. In this case, dental implants are placed into the jawbone, and the bridge is anchored to these implants. Implant-supported bridges offer a highly stable and durable solution, as the implants act as artificial roots, mimicking the function of natural teeth. This type of bridge is often recommended for patients with multiple missing teeth.

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

There are several advantages to getting bridges in Wells, ME: 

Restored Functionality

Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly and may even affect your speech. Dental bridges restore your ability to eat comfortably and speak clearly by filling in the gaps with artificial teeth that look and feel like your natural teeth.

Improved Aesthetics

A complete smile is a sign of good oral health and contributes to your overall appearance. Dental bridges fill the gaps caused by missing teeth, enhancing the look of your smile and giving you the confidence to show it off.

Prevent Teeth From Shifting 

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift out of place, leading to misalignment and bite problems. By replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, you can prevent this movement and maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth.

Preserving Facial Structure

The absence of teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw over time, which can cause changes in your facial structure and make you look older. Dental bridges help maintain the integrity of your jawbone and the overall structure of your face by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth.

Long-Lasting Solution

With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, making them a durable and cost-effective solution for tooth replacement. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential to ensure the longevity of your bridge.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

Getting bridges in Wells, ME, typically involves two appointments with our dentist in Wells, ME. Here's what you can expect during the procedure: 

Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation

During your first visit, our dentist will examine your teeth to determine if a dental bridge is the best solution. If you have healthy adjacent teeth supporting a traditional or cantilever bridge, our dentist will prepare these teeth by reshaping them to accommodate the crowns. 

Dental implants must be placed first for patients receiving an implant-supported bridge. This process involves surgically inserting the implants into the jawbone, where they will fuse with the bone over several months. Once the implants have fully integrated, the bridge can be attached.

Taking Impressions

After the teeth have been prepared, our dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a mold. This mold will be sent to a dental laboratory where your custom bridge will be crafted. The artificial teeth will be designed to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and color for a seamless and natural look. 

Temporary Bridge Placement

While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, our dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain functionality. This temporary bridge will help you chew and speak comfortably until your permanent bridge is ready. 

Final Bridge Placement

Once your permanent bridge is complete, you will return to our dental office for the final placement. During this appointment, our dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check the fit and appearance of the permanent one. If everything looks good, the bridge will be cemented or bonded into place, restoring your smile and the function of your teeth. 

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care is essential to maintain the health of your dental bridge and the surrounding teeth. Here are some tips for taking care of your bridge:

• Brush and Floss Daily: Good oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of your bridge. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and use floss or an interdental brush to clean around the bridge and between your teeth.
• Use a Special Floss Threader: Cleaning underneath a bridge can be challenging. Our dentist in Wells, ME, may recommend using a floss threader to help you effectively reach and clean the area under the bridge.
• Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While dental bridges are durable, hard or sticky foods can cause damage to the bridge or the surrounding teeth. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard foods or items that may put excessive pressure on the bridge.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular visits to the dentist are essential to ensure that your bridge is in good condition and that the surrounding teeth and gums remain healthy.

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

With proper care, dental bridges can last for five to 15 years or even longer. The longevity of a dental bridge depends on the material used, the patient's oral hygiene habits, and regular dental care. 

Conclusion

Dental bridges in Wells, ME, offer an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring the function and appearance of your smile. Whether you need a traditional bridge, an implant-supported bridge, or another type of dental restoration, our experienced dentist in Wells, ME, can help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile that lasts. By choosing a bridge, you improve your oral health and regain confidence in your smile, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of a complete and functional set of teeth.

Schedule your appointment today at Nortey Dental, located at 1332 Post Rd, Wells, ME 04090, by calling (207) 646-5297. To learn more about the various services we provide, please visit our official website.