Dental Bridges
We provide dental bridges in Duluth, Georgia, to improve our patients' oral health and the appearance of their smile! We will do everything we can to provide our patients with a happy and healthy smile. Call Duluth Dental Group today at 770-476-3332 to schedule an appointment with our dentists, Dr. Ken Cheng and Dr. Chan Chan.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, that are anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or implants. Bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring both the appearance and function of your smile.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Replace missing teeth to restore your complete smile
- Improve your ability to chew and speak properly
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position
- Maintain the natural shape of your face
- Distribute bite forces evenly across your teeth
- Provide a durable, long-lasting restoration
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, and Dr. Ken Cheng or Dr. Chan Chan will recommend the best option for your specific situation:
- Traditional bridge: The most common type, where crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap with a pontic in between.
- Cantilever bridge: Used when there is only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap to support the bridge.
- Maryland bridge: A conservative option that uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge: Secured by dental implants rather than natural teeth, ideal for replacing multiple consecutive missing teeth.
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically requires two visits. During the first visit, the abutment teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate the supporting crowns. Impressions are taken and sent to a dental lab where your custom bridge is fabricated. A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth. At your second visit, the temporary bridge is removed and your permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted and cemented into place.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, dental bridges can last many years. To maintain your bridge, we recommend brushing twice daily, flossing daily using a floss threader or interdental brush to clean beneath the pontic, and visiting our office regularly for checkups and cleanings.
If you are missing one or more teeth, contact Duluth Dental Group today at 770-476-3332 to learn how a dental bridge can restore your smile in Duluth, Georgia.