When Susan lost a tooth after an old filling failed, she didn’t think it would affect her much. But over time, she noticed the gap made chewing difficult and left her feeling self-conscious when she smiled. She even started avoiding some of her favorite foods because eating was no longer enjoyable. Susan knew it was time to do something about her missing tooth, and that’s when she discovered dental bridges at Parkside Dental Care—a practical and reliable solution that could restore her smile and confidence.
Table of Contents
What Are Dental Bridges and How Do They Work?
A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like: a structure designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, that fill the empty space, supported by crowns placed on the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. The result is a complete, functional smile that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.
Bridges are typically made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of materials designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. This ensures that the bridge blends in seamlessly with your smile. For Susan, a dental bridge offered a straightforward and natural-looking way to restore her missing tooth without the need for surgery.
Why Dental Bridges Are More Than Just a Cosmetic Fix
Susan initially thought that replacing her missing tooth was mostly about aesthetics, but her dentist explained that a dental bridge does much more than just improve appearance—it also helps maintain the overall health of her mouth. When teeth are missing, the surrounding teeth can begin to shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment, bite issues, and further dental problems. A bridge helps keep everything in its proper place, preventing these complications and supporting the overall structure of your mouth.
Replacing missing teeth with a bridge also makes everyday activities, like eating and speaking, much easier. Susan had been struggling with certain foods because the gap made chewing uncomfortable, and she found herself avoiding social situations because she was embarrassed about her smile. With a dental bridge, she could chew confidently and speak clearly, restoring her quality of life in ways she hadn’t realized were possible.
The Dental Bridge Process: What to Expect
Susan’s journey to getting her dental bridge started with a thorough consultation and examination by her dentist. X-rays and digital scans helped determine the best type of bridge for her needs and ensured that her supporting teeth were strong enough to hold the bridge in place. Once her dentist confirmed she was a good candidate, the next step was to prepare her abutment teeth, the teeth adjacent to the gap.
To prepare the abutment teeth, the dentist reshaped them slightly to fit the crowns that would support the bridge. Impressions of Susan’s teeth were then taken to create a precise model, ensuring that her custom bridge would fit perfectly. A temporary bridge was placed to protect the prepared teeth and gums while her permanent bridge was being crafted in a dental lab.
At her final appointment, Susan’s custom bridge was fitted, adjusted, and securely cemented in place. The dentist made sure the bridge looked natural and felt comfortable, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. When Susan looked in the mirror, she was thrilled to see her complete smile again—no one would ever know she had a missing tooth.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge: Tips for Long-Lasting Results
With her new bridge in place, Susan knew that maintaining good oral hygiene was essential to keeping it in great shape. Brushing twice a day, flossing around the bridge, and using a water flosser to clean under the pontic were key steps to keeping her bridge and surrounding teeth healthy. Regular dental check-ups allowed her dentist to monitor the condition of her bridge and make sure everything was functioning as it should.
While dental bridges are durable, it’s important to avoid habits that could damage them, such as chewing on ice or hard objects. Susan’s dentist also recommended a balanced diet and limiting sugary snacks to help prevent decay in the supporting teeth. With the right care, Susan’s bridge could last for many years, giving her confidence in her smile every day.
Regain Your Smile with Dental Bridges
For Susan, choosing a dental bridge wasn’t just about filling a gap—it was about restoring her smile, her confidence, and her ability to enjoy life without limitations. Dental bridges provide a practical and reliable solution for anyone dealing with missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Whether it’s one missing tooth or several, a dental bridge can help you reclaim your smile and improve your oral health.
At Parkside Dental Care, we’re dedicated to helping you find the right solution for your needs with personalized care and expert guidance. Our team will work with you every step of the way to ensure your dental bridge looks natural, feels comfortable, and restores your smile beautifully. If you’re ready to bridge the gap and enjoy a complete smile again, we’re here to help you take that first step.