Are you embarrassed by your missing teeth? Do you wish you had a fuller and more balanced smile?
It is important to replace a missing tooth or teeth because gaps in teeth can easily be filled by remaining teeth. Shifting teeth crowd together and make it difficult to clean. Spaces in the mouth that are difficult to clean are prone to tooth decay due to plaque buildup. A dental bridge can be placed to restore the function and aesthetics of your smile after tooth loss.
Dr. Mark Tyma, Dr. Brian Trachtenberg, and Dr. Peter Bullock work with patients on an individual basis when replacing teeth to give them a more balanced and natural-looking smile.
Treatment with Dental Bridges
One of our professionals will assess your oral health to determine if you have enough healthy bone and gum tissue needed for this procedure. They will also take your goals and budget into account.
Dental bridges are a restorative option that can be anchored by natural adjacent teeth or dental implants. When using existing teeth it is often necessary to place dental crowns for the most stable result. When used in conjunction with dental implants, dental bridges can be permanent, long-lasting replacements for missing teeth.
A removable dental bridge should be removed and cleaned twice a day. Implant secured dental bridges can be maintained like regular natural teeth.
Missing Teeth Problems
There are several problems that can arise when one or more teeth are missing:
- Shifting teeth
- Overcrowding
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Misaligned bite
Have you noticed any of these common problems? Call (215) 348-4172 and one of our dentists will help you find a restorative treatment that’s right for you, whether it be dental implants, a dental bridge, or dentures.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Is getting a bridge painful?
Placing a bridge is a relatively easy and painless procedure. Your dentist will numb your mouth so that you are comfortable throughout the procedure, and so you do not feel any pain. After the procedure patients may experience some sensitivity or tenderness but nothing that is unbearable.
How long after a dental bridge procedure can I eat?
After a bridge has been placed patients need to wait at least one hour before eating. This gives time for your bridge to set and any cement used to dry. Patients should avoid eating hard or chewy foods for a few days to give themselves time to adjust to their new bridge.
How long does it take your mouth to heal after a bridge?
It takes about two weeks to fully adjust to a bridge being placed. It is not abnormal for patients to experience slight sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after their bridge is placed. If you have not begun to adjust to your bridge after 2 weeks contact your dentist.
How long do dental bridges last on front teeth?
It is typical for fixed bridges to last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on the patient’s oral health as well as their ability to maintain their oral hygiene over time. They may last slightly less time on the front teeth, because of the amount of stress that front teeth undergo on a daily basis.
Can teeth decay under a bridge?
When a dental bridge is used to replace missing teeth, the natural teeth beneath the crowns remain vulnerable to decay and other oral health issues. Tooth decay can occur as a result of food particles becoming trapped between teeth or under a dental bridge that has been improperly fitted.
How long does the pain last after a dental bridge?
Within two weeks of your appointment, you should be free of any discomfort. Don’t hesitate to call us if it does not start to feel more comfortable or the pain becomes more severe.
Can you chew gum with a dental bridge?
Excessive pressure from chewing can cause these bridges to loosen, allowing decay to build up in the tiniest of spaces and cracks. It is important to be careful while chewing with a bridge.
How do I keep my bridge clean?
In order to keep your bridge clean, we recommend brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once daily. Patients should also schedule regular dental visits to ensure that their oral care is in check.
Don’t wait for more problems to arise from missing or lost teeth. Restore your smile in our Doylestown office. Call (215) 348-4172 for respectful and comfortable care. You are also able to request a consultation with our dentists on our website. We will be happy to coordinate care and find a solution that aligns well with your specific oral health problems.