Dental Bridges
At Stony Brook General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand how important it is to replace missing teeth for both the health and appearance of your smile. Dental bridges are a reliable solution that can fill the gap left by missing teeth, restoring functionality and providing a natural-looking smile. Using your existing teeth as anchors, a dental bridge literally "bridges" the space where your tooth is missing, ensuring durability and comfort for years to come. If you’re seeking a solution for missing teeth, trust our experienced Lake Grove dentist to craft a bridge that meets your unique needs.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge consists of two crowns on either end, called abutments, and a false tooth in the middle, called a pontic. The abutments are placed over your natural teeth adjacent to the gap, and the pontic fills the space, restoring your smile and bite. Bridges are custom-made from materials like porcelain, gold, or metal alloys, offering both strength and a natural appearance.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Creating and placing a dental bridge involves several steps to ensure a precise fit and optimal function:
1. Preparing the Abutments
The process begins with preparing your natural teeth on either side of the gap. These teeth are recontoured to serve as abutments, providing a stable base for the bridge.
2. Taking Impressions
Once the abutments are ready, Dr. Sheth will take an impression of the area. This mold is sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians craft a custom bridge that fits perfectly and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
3. Temporary Bridge
While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, you’ll be fitted with a temporary bridge. This not only protects the prepared teeth and gums but also maintains your smile’s appearance.
4. Placing the Permanent Bridge
During your follow-up visit to our practice, our Lake Grove dentist will place the permanent bridge. Using dental adhesive, the bridge is secured onto the abutments, ensuring it stays firmly in place. Dr. Sheth will make final adjustments to guarantee a comfortable fit and natural look.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages beyond restoring your smile. They help:
- Prevent structural changes in your mouth and jaw caused by missing teeth.
- Maintain proper alignment of your remaining teeth.
- Restore your ability to chew and speak effectively.
- Enhance your confidence with a full, natural-looking smile.
What to Expect After Placement
It’s normal for your new bridge to feel slightly unfamiliar at first, but you’ll quickly adjust within a few days. We recommend starting with soft foods for the first few days after placement. Once you’ve adapted, you’ll be able to eat your favorite foods without concern.
If you’re missing a tooth, don’t wait to explore your options for replacement. Schedule an appointment with Stony Brook General and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Our Lake Grove dentist is here to help you regain your smile’s health, function, and beauty with a customized dental bridge.