Dental Bridges Q & A
What’s a dental bridge?
A dental bridges restores your smile by permanently replacing one or more missing teeth. Typically, it includes prosthetic teeth attached to a dental crown on one or both sides. Together, the crowns and prosthetic teeth bridge the gap left by missing teeth, creating a complete, natural-looking smile.
Dental bridges are made from a wide range of materials, including:
- Zirconia
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Gold
- Metal alloys
These different materials are all designed to cater to your unique needs, preferences, and budget.
Why should I get a dental bridge?
Missing teeth can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. Missing teeth can also lead to:
- Misalignment as natural teeth shift to fill in the empty space
- Jaw problems
- Deformation of your face as the muscles and surrounding tissues cave in
- Difficulty speaking and chewing properly
- Bone loss in your jaw
Your mouth naturally functions best when all your teeth work together in harmony. That’s why a dental bridge restores balance, enhancing both the function and health of your smile.
What’s the process for getting a bridge?
Dr. Chirla can fit you with a high-quality dental bridge in two office visits.
At your first appointment, Dr. Chirla starts by applying a local anesthetic to the area in your mouth where the bridge will go. Next, unless you’re getting a bridge on dental implants, he shaves down the enamel on the teeth next to your missing tooth to make space for the crowns that will support the bridge.
After preparing your abutment teeth, he takes an impression of your smile and sends it to a dental lab. There, technicians craft your custom bridge to ensure a seamless, comfortable fit. In the meantime, Dr. Chirla places a temporary bridge so you can maintain function and appearance while your permanent one is being made.
Once your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return for your second appointment. Dr. Chirla removes the temporary bridge, cleans your mouth, and places the new one. He carefully checks the fit and seals it in place using a strong bonding solution—ultimately giving you a beautiful, functional smile.
Don’t wait to restore your confidence with a full, radiant smile. Schedule your dental bridge consultation with Danny Chirla, DDS today—call the office or book online to get started.