Dental Bridge Charleston SC | Missing Teeth West Ashley

Dental BridgesAn Overview

Replacing one or more missing teeth can restore not only your dental health and function but your self-confidence and ability to enjoy your best quality of life each day. Charleston comprehensive dentists Dr. James Dickert and Dr. Agatha Lynn offer tooth replacement options to suit your needs, including dental bridges.

Modern Dental bridges in Charleston

Today’s dental bridges have evolved with the advances made in both materials and technology and can provide a stable, lasting restoration. Replacement teeth are now virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

More treatment options mean better choices for patients looking for a solution that fits their oral health needs, aesthetic goals, and budget. A bridge is a custom-fabricated dental restoration designed to “bridge” the gap between teeth.

Dental bridges can be used to replace a single missing tooth or several consecutive missing teeth and are typically permanently attached for normal function and comfort. The bridgework is a series of prosthetic teeth linked together and supported by an anchor on either side of the gap.

A dental bridge can either be removable or fixed. Your dental bridge will be custom color-matched to blend with your natural teeth, giving you back a smile you feel good about.

Implant-supported Bridge

A dental bridge that is supported by affordable dental implants provides the most natural replacement for missing teeth. Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth. Traditionally, a dental bridge is secured by filing down the existing, adjacent teeth to use as posts for the bridge. The bridge could then be snapped on and off of these filed-down teeth.

With the use of dental implants, a dental bridge can be permanently secured in place which doesn’t require the use of healthy teeth. Implant-supported dental bridges have a higher success rate compared to traditional bridgework. Additionally, dental implants promote continued bone growth, preventing both bone shrinkage and gum recession associated with traditional bridges and dentures.

Dental Bridges What to Expect

The most common dental bridge is made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two, and consists of two crowns that are set over two anchoring teeth. If desired or if the proposed anchor teeth are in poor health, a dental implant(s) can be placed to anchor the bridge for a secure and lasting result.

The dental bridge process will require several visits to our Charleston dentist office, beginning with treatment planning. Once the placement method and materials to be used are decided upon, the next step is to strengthen the anchor teeth with dental crowns.

Once this phase is complete, impressions can be taken for fabricating your bridge. A temporary bridge is often placed to restore function and help you get used to the feel of a new dental restoration.

If you choose dental implants to secure your bridge, a treatment plan for placing the implants will be coordinated with the fabrication and placement of the bridge. This will involve surgical implantation of the implant posts and the placement of a temporary bridge. After a 3 to 6 month healing period, you will return to our Charleston dentist office for the permanent placement of your dental bridge.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have missing teeth, we offer a dental bridge in our Charleston dentist office. Schedule an appointment online with Drs. Dickert or Dr. Lynn. We will discuss your oral health, concerns, and budget to see which missing teeth option is right for you.

Dental Bridges FAQs

Does a dental bridge feel natural?: Yes. Modern dental bridges are more comfortable than ever. You will not be given a one-size-fits-all bridge. The reason we take time to take impressions of your teeth and make you wait while we fabricate the bridge at a dental lab is that we want to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. We want your prosthetic to fit perfectly and feel like your natural teeth.
What can't you eat with a dental bridge?: We recommend that you stay away from extra chewy and gummy foods, and really hard foods. Eating these types of foods with a bridge on can greatly reduce the hold and effectiveness of the bridge over time. Even Implant-secured bridges can get damaged by regularly chewing in hard foods, like ice for example.
How do you clean a dental bridge?: If your dental bridge is removable, gently brush it with your toothbrush and toothpaste. Modern bridges do not need to be soaked overnight and don’t need special products. If your bridge is fixed, take care of it like your natural teeth. Although, it is very important to floss between the anchor teeth and under the bridge.
Is a dental bridge procedure painful?: Having a dental bridge procedure is usually not typically painful. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area where they will place the bridge. As a result, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. After the anesthetic wears off, you may experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity. Over-the-counter pain relievers are generally sufficient to manage this.
How long do dental bridges last?: Dental bridges typically last between 5 to 15 years. With good oral hygiene, they can last over 15 years. The lifespan of a dental bridge can vary depending on the bridge type and the supporting teeth’ health. Moreover, avoiding hard foods can also help prolong the life of a dental bridge. It’s important to maintain regular dental visits to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge.
Is it normal for a dental bridge to feel loose?: No. It’s not normal for a dental bridge to feel loose. A properly fitted and cemented dental bridge should feel secure and comfortable. If your dental bridge feels loose, it could be due to wear and tear, damage, or issues with the supporting teeth. It’s important to contact your dentist as soon as you notice any movement or discomfort. A loose dental bridge can lead to other dental problems

Dental Bridges Charleston, SC