Dental Bridges in Roswell, GA
A missing tooth can make it harder to chew and speak, and the teeth next to the gap can slowly shift into the empty space. A dental bridge fills that gap with an artificial tooth that is held in place by the teeth or implants on either side. Bridges are one of the ways we replace missing teeth as part of our restorative dentistry services in Roswell, GA.
Dental bridges at Shallowford Dental Studio in Roswell, Georgia, are provided under the care of Dr. Lucy Sedrakyan, DMD, who takes a personalized approach to each treatment plan. Schedule a consultation to find out whether a bridge, an implant, or another option may be right for you.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between adjacent teeth or dental implants. It consists of artificial teeth called pontics, which are anchored to natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. A bridge is cemented or bonded in place, so unlike a removable denture, you do not take it out to clean it. Bridges can restore chewing function, help keep remaining teeth from shifting, and improve how your smile looks.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges come in several types, each suited to different dental needs:
- Traditional Fixed Bridge: Pontics are anchored to crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This is the most common type, and the supporting teeth must be reshaped to hold the crowns.
- Cantilever Bridge: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support. It places more stress on that tooth, so it is generally limited to areas with lighter biting force.
- Maryland Bridge: Pontics are held in place by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. This type is most often used for front teeth and may not be strong enough for molars.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: Pontics are supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth, so the neighboring teeth do not need to be reshaped.
How Are Dental Bridges Placed?
Getting a traditional bridge usually takes two visits. Here is an overview of the process:
- Initial Consultation: Our dentist in Roswell, GA will examine your teeth and gums, may take X-rays, and talk with you about which type of bridge may be right for you.
- Preparation: During the first visit, the teeth next to the gap (the abutment teeth) are numbed and reshaped so they can hold crowns.
- Impressions: Impressions of your teeth are taken so a custom bridge can be made to fit your bite and match your natural teeth.
- Temporary Bridge: While the permanent bridge is made in a dental lab, a temporary bridge is placed to protect your prepared teeth.
- Final Placement: On your next visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the new bridge will be checked for fit and comfort before being permanently cemented or bonded into place.
At Shallowford Dental Studio in Roswell, GA, your dentist will explain each step and answer your questions along the way.
Do You Need Dental Bridges?
What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge may be an option. Bridges can improve how your smile looks, make it easier to chew, and help keep surrounding teeth from shifting. They are custom-made and anchor to neighboring teeth or implants. Whether a tooth was lost to injury, decay, or another reason, your dentist can explain whether a bridge fits your situation.
At Shallowford Dental Studio, we take a personalized approach, and your dentist in Roswell, GA will evaluate your unique dental needs and talk with you about treatment options.
Potential benefits of a dental bridge include the following:
- Restored Aesthetics: Bridges fill gaps left by missing teeth, improving your smile's appearance and boosting self-confidence.
- Improved Chewing Function: By replacing missing teeth, bridges can make it easier to chew and speak.
- Teeth Staying in Place: A bridge can help keep surrounding teeth from shifting into the empty space.
- Distributed Bite Forces: A bridge can help spread bite forces across your teeth instead of leaving a gap.
- Prevention of Dental Issues: By filling a gap, a bridge can help keep nearby teeth from drifting, which can lead to bite and cleaning problems.
Bridges are custom-made, and your dentist will check the fit and bite before the bridge is permanently placed.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant
A bridge and a dental implant can both replace a missing tooth. A bridge uses the teeth next to the gap for support and is often finished in fewer steps without surgery, but those teeth have to be reshaped to hold crowns. An implant replaces the tooth root and does not depend on neighboring teeth, but it involves surgery and a longer healing period. Bridges often last about 10 to 15 years, and implants often last longer. If several teeth are missing, dentures may also be an option, and your dentist can help you compare them.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day, using a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to clean under the artificial tooth, as the University of Maryland Medical System explains. Try not to chew ice or other hard foods on the bridge, and keep your regular dental cleanings and exams so your dentist can check the bridge and the teeth that support it. Our guide to dental bridge materials explains how porcelain, ceramic, and metal options compare.
What to Do If a Bridge Comes Loose or Breaks
If a bridge comes loose, cracks, or feels different when you bite, call us as soon as you can. Keep the bridge or any pieces in a safe place, avoid chewing on that side, and keep the area clean. Severe pain or swelling should be treated as an emergency.
Cost and Insurance for Dental Bridges
The cost of a bridge depends on the type, the number of teeth replaced, and the materials used, and many dental plans cover part of the cost, though annual maximums may apply. Call us to review your benefits and estimated costs before treatment begins.
Shallowford Dental Studio provides dental bridges for patients in Roswell, Georgia, with a personalized approach led by Dr. Lucy Sedrakyan, DMD. Our team focuses on comfortable visits, clear communication, and care plans built around each patient’s needs.
Ready to replace a missing tooth? Call (470) 970-4111 or contact our Roswell, Georgia office to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental bridges can be made from porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic materials, or even gold alloys for durability and aesthetics.
