Dental Bridge in Foley, AL
A dental bridge seamlessly replaces a single missing tooth or a series of missing teeth. Missing teeth negatively affect the appearance of your smile and functionality of your teeth, including how you bite or chew.
They cause shifting of your teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) or speech impediments, and they put you at risk for periodontal disease and tooth decay. A bridge comprises two crowns for the anchoring teeth, called abutments, on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in-between, called pontics. These pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges need to be supported by natural teeth or implants.
Dental Bridges Can:
- Restore your smile
- Restore your ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Properly distribute the forces in your bite by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position and causing malocclusion
Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits in our Foley, AL office. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment in our Foley, AL office. At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented later. Proper brushing, flossing and regular visits to our Foley, AL office will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
