Are you missing a tooth or two? Are your lost teeth affecting the way you speak or eat?
Dr. Jason Petkevis offers dental bridges as a restorative dental replacement option for missing teeth. There are several types of dental bridges at Dental Distinction. Dr. Petkevis will help you make the best decision for your long-term goals and dental health with a thorough dental exam. We will only recommend the most effective treatments for your specific oral health needs.
Dental Bridges in Chester Springs, PA
Essentially, a dental bridge is a restoration where a series of dental crowns are connected to fill in the gap a lost tooth has left behind. This restoration can effectively fill in the gap that a lost tooth has left behind. You can use a dental bridge to replace one or more missing teeth. It can either be removable, fixed, or supported with dental implants.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Removable Dental Bridge – Generally, a removable dental bridge is only suitable as a short-term solution. A removable bridge can help maintain the position of neighboring teeth while you wait to have a fixed dental bridge or dental implant. While the cost of a removable dental bridge is appealing, they do not offer the long-term benefits of a more permanent solution.
- Fixed Dental Bridge – Your dentist will connect a prosthetic tooth to two dental crowns that cover the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. It affects the two teeth that are next to the gap. Your dentist will need to prepare these teeth by filing them down to fit dental crowns over them.
- Dental Implant Supported Bridge – Another option is to have a fixed dental bridge secured by dental implants instead of dental crowns. Dental implants are self-supporting. They eliminate the need to degrade neighboring teeth like traditional fixed dental bridges.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
There are many things to consider when comparing dental bridges vs. implants. While dental implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth, not everyone is a candidate. You must have adequate bone structure to support the dental implant. Depending on the location of the missing tooth or teeth, a dental implant may not be a good choice. After an initial exam and consultation, Dr. Petkevis can recommend the best option for you while considering your current overall health, budget, and more.
Another major difference between a dental bridge vs. implant is the cost. Dental implants require a more significant initial investment. However, dental implants are less likely to need future work or maintenance.
Dental Bridge Repairs
If you have a dental bridge that’s giving you trouble, Dr. Petkevis can help you. Dental bridges can sometimes require fixing, which is normal. If you device is giving you issues, the first thing you should do is schedule a dental appointment. Let us know if your bridge is loose, chipped, or simply does not feel right. We will schedule a dental appointment and get you in as soon as possible.
Depending on what Dr. Petkevis finds, he will either replace or repair it. In some cases, he can repair the bridge during the same visit. If the dental bridge has too much damage, we may suggest replacing it.
We will provide you with a new, modern bridge if you need a new bridge. The dental bridges we place today look more natural and feel more comfortable than older restorations.
After Dr. Petkevis assesses your device, he will walk you through all your options. We want you to understand each option so you can choose what is best for your smile. The sooner you come in, the better chance we have of fixing your bridge instead of replacing it. A well-fitting bridge is vital for your comfort and oral health. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to have us check it out.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Many people have questions about how dental bridge work, what they’re made of, and how long they last. In our dental bridge FAQ section, we’ll go over the most common questions people ask about dental bridges to help you make the best decision for your dental health.
How many teeth can be in a bridge?
A traditional bridge can replace anywhere from one to about four missing teeth, depending on how large the gap is. This is the most common type of dental bridge. A traditional bridge requires healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. his type of bridge is strong and works well for most people, providing a sturdy and natural-looking replacement.
However, it is important to note that the larger the bridge, the more stress it places on the abutment teeth. Most dentists do not like to replace more than four teeth for this reason. An implant supported bridge can replace more teeth because they offer better durability and do not put any stress on your natural teeth.
Are dental bridges permanent?
A traditional dental bridge is fixed in place meaning only a dentist can remove it. However, there are removable bridges. If you want to be able to remove your bridge, make sure to choose a removable bridge. If you want to have a permanent bridge then choosing a fixed bridge is your best option. Most dentists recommend removable bridges as a temporary solution because they will not provide a lot of stability.
Does a dental bridge feel natural?
A dental bridge is designed to feel just like your natural teeth, providing a seamless and comfortable experience. Most patients report that their dental bridge feels even better than their original teeth, especially when it’s used to replace missing teeth or restore damaged ones.
We will craft a dental bridge that will fit perfectly into the space it’s meant to fill. With dental impressions, we can match it to the exact shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, ensuring a natural and comfortable feel. Your custom bridge will help restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
When can I eat after I get a dental bridge?
You can eat soft foods and liquids after you receive your dental bridge. After 24 hours, you can begin to eat more solid foods. Cutting these foods into smaller pieces will help you get accustomed to your new restoration.
What shouldn’t you eat with a dental bridge?
With a dental bridge, you should be able to eat normally. However, some foods put you at a higher risk. Gum, candy, and other sticky foods put you at a higher risk of experiencing complications with your bridges. Foods high in sugar, and drinks such as coffee, soda, and wine are also more likely to cause problems as well.
Will I need a bone graft for a bridge?
You will not need a bone graft if you receive a traditional bridge. However, if you receive a dental implant-supported bridge and do not have enough jaw bone for implant surgery, we will recommend bone grafting.
Our Chester Springs dentist near you is your dental partner for the success of your long-term oral health. Give us a call today at 610-904-9274 or request an appointment online.