What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are fitted with dental crowns, which hold the replacement tooth (or teeth) securely in place.
How Dental Bridges Work
Dental bridges consist of three main components:
- Anchor Crowns: These are placed over your natural teeth on either side of the gap to hold the bridge in place.
- Replacement Tooth (Pontic): The artificial tooth that fills the space, restoring your smile’s appearance and function.
- High-Quality Materials: At Kuhn Dental Associates, we use ceramic materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring a beautiful, durable result.
Dental bridges are bonded securely, so they are not removable. Unlike dentures, they won’t slip or move while eating, speaking, or laughing.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages as a tooth replacement solution, including:
- Restored Function: Bridges allow you to bite, chew, and speak naturally without discomfort.
- Natural Appearance: Made from tooth-colored materials, dental bridges look just like your natural teeth.
- Fixed Solution: Unlike removable dentures, bridges are permanently bonded in place.
- Non-Invasive: Dental bridges do not require surgery, making them an excellent option for patients with dental anxiety.
- Durability: With proper care, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or longer.
- Improved Oral Health: Replacing missing teeth prevents nearby teeth from shifting, maintaining proper alignment and bite.
Dental bridges are an ideal solution for patients looking to restore their smile quickly and effectively without the need for dental implant surgery.
The Dental Bridge Process at Kuhn Dental Associates
At Kuhn Dental Associates, we streamline the dental bridge process using our CEREC same-day crown system. This advanced technology allows us to design, create, and place your bridge in a single visit, saving you time and hassle.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
- Digital Impressions: We use a small digital camera to scan your teeth, creating a 3D model of your bite without the need for messy, traditional impressions.
- Bridge Design: Our restorative dentists will design your custom dental bridge using computer-aided technology.
- Milling the Bridge: The design is sent to our in-office milling machine, which creates your bridge from a block of ceramic that matches the shade of your natural teeth.
- Adjustments and Placement: Once the bridge is ready, we ensure a perfect fit and make any necessary adjustments. Finally, the bridge is bonded securely into place.
With our CEREC technology, you can enjoy a fully restored smile in just one appointment.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a great option for patients who:
- Are missing one or more teeth but have healthy teeth on either side of the gap.
- Want a fixed, non-removable solution.
- Prefer a non-surgical tooth replacement option.
- Are looking for a quicker, more affordable alternative to dental implants.
If you have multiple missing teeth or lack sufficient supporting teeth, we may recommend exploring dental implants as an alternative solution.
Why Choose Kuhn Dental Associates for Dental Bridges?
At Kuhn Dental Associates, we combine advanced dental technology with compassionate care to provide exceptional results for our patients. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Advanced Technology: Our CEREC system allows us to complete your dental bridge in a single visit.
- Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your needs and customize treatments to achieve the best results.
- High-Quality Materials: We use durable, natural-looking ceramic materials for long-lasting, beautiful restorations.
- Focus on Comfort: For patients with dental anxiety, we offer sedation dentistry options to ensure a relaxed and stress-free experience.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, dental bridges can last for over a decade. To maintain your bridge and overall oral health:
- Brush and floss daily, paying extra attention to the area around the bridge.
- Use a floss threader to clean underneath the replacement tooth.
- Visit our office regularly for professional cleanings and exams.
- Avoid chewing hard foods or using your teeth as tools to prevent damage.
We will provide detailed care instructions to help you protect your investment and keep your smile healthy.
Contact Us to Restore Your Smile
If you’re ready to replace missing teeth and regain your confidence, dental bridges at Kuhn Dental Associates are an excellent choice. Our Moore County dental implant specialist, Dr. Ritt Kuhn is here to help you achieve a strong, functional, and beautiful smile.
Schedule Your Appointment
- Call us at (910) 692-4450 to book your consultation.
- Fill out our online contact form, and a member of our team will reach out to assist you.
Restore your smile and confidence with a custom dental bridge at Kuhn Dental Associates—where advanced technology meets exceptional care.