Dental Bridges

Restore Your Smile With A Comfortable, Natural-Looking Solution

Missing a tooth can affect more than the way your smile looks. It can make chewing more difficult, change the way your other teeth come together and leave you feeling less confident about your smile. At Cary Smiles, we offer dental bridges as a way to fill the space left by a missing tooth while helping your smile look and feel complete again.

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Smiling dental bridges patient showing a restored smile in cary, nc.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are fixed restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge typically consists of a replacement tooth, called a pontic, supported by dental crowns that fit over the teeth next to the open space.

Unlike a removable denture, a bridge stays in place once it is completed. This means you can eat, speak and smile without having to remove your restoration.

A bridge can also help keep neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space left by a missing tooth. Replacing that space can support a more balanced bite and make it easier to maintain your smile over time.

Who Are They For?

Dental bridges may be an option if you are missing a tooth and have healthy teeth or another appropriate structure available to support the restoration. You may be a candidate if you:

Are missing one or more teeth
Have healthy teeth next to the missing space
Want a fixed alternative to a removable denture

Are looking to restore your ability to chew comfortably
Want to improve the appearance of a gap in your smile

Dr. Shah will evaluate your teeth, gums and bite before recommending a solution that works well with your smile and your long-term oral health.

The Dental Bridges Process

Getting bridges typically involves a few steps. Our team will guide you through each one so you know what to expect.

Consultation And Evaluation: Dr. Shah will examine the area where your tooth is missing and evaluate your surrounding teeth and gums. X-rays or other imaging may be recommended to help determine the best approach.
Preparing Your Smile: For a traditional bridge, Dr. Shah carefully prepares the supporting teeth to accommodate the crowns that hold the bridge in place. Impressions or digital scans are then used to create a restoration that fits your smile.
Creating Your Bridge: Your bridge is custom-made to match the shape, size and appearance of your natural teeth. Dr. Shah will consider the surrounding teeth and your bite when planning the restoration.
Placing Your Restoration: Once your bridge is ready, Dr. Shah will check its fit, appearance and bite before securing it in place. We want your finished restoration to feel comfortable and look natural.

FAQs

Wondering if bridges are the right fit for your smile needs? Here are answers to some of the questions patients commonly ask Dr. Shah about dental bridges.

Are dental bridges better than dentures?

Dental bridges and dentures replace missing teeth in different ways. A bridge is fixed in place and is generally used to replace a smaller number of missing teeth, while a partial or complete denture can replace several or all your teeth in an arch. Dr. Shah can help you compare your options based on your oral health, lifestyle and goals.

How much are dental bridges?

The cost of bridges depends on several factors, including the type of bridge, the materials used, the number of teeth being replaced and whether additional dental treatment is needed. Dental insurance may cover part of the cost, depending on your plan. Our team can discuss your treatment costs and payment options with you before you begin.

How long do dental bridges last?

With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, bridges can last for many years. Their longevity depends on factors such as the health of the supporting teeth, your bite, your oral hygiene and everyday habits. Regular checkups allow Dr. Shah to monitor your bridge and the teeth around it.

Do dental bridges hurt?

Getting bridges should not be painful. Dr. Shah will use local anesthesia when needed during the preparation process. You may experience some sensitivity or tenderness afterward, but this typically improves as your mouth adjusts to the restoration.

Can a dental bridge be replaced?

Yes! Bridges may eventually need to be repaired or replaced because of normal wear, damage or changes in the supporting teeth. Regular dental visits with Dr. Shah help him check the bridge’s condition and address concerns before they become more serious.

Complete Your Smile With Cary Smiles

If you’re living with a missing tooth, you don’t have to settle for a gap in your smile or a restoration that doesn’t feel like you. Dental bridges can provide a comfortable, natural-looking way to restore your smile and get back to enjoying your favorite foods and everyday moments.

At Cary Smiles, we’ll take the time to understand what you want from your treatment and help you choose an option that fits your smile needs. Request your appointment today to find out whether a dental bridge could be right for you.

Our Patients Are At The Root Of Everything We Do

We are committed to delivering a positive dental experience for every patient, every time. Our warm and welcoming team fosters a relaxing, comfortable environment that feels like home. We use cutting-edge technology, such as digital X-rays, scans, and 3D-printed appliances, to ensure your comfort and provide exceptional care. Request an appointment today!