Replace missing teeth and improve your smile with dental bridges in Columbia, MO
Your teeth play an important function in everyday tasks such as eating, speaking, and keeping adjacent teeth in proper alignment. When tooth loss occurs, teeth must be replaced in order to retain proper function and prevent further damage from occurring. If you are missing several teeth in a row, a dental bridge is an excellent option to restore your smile. At the office of Chase Patton, D.D.S., we place beautiful bridges made of high-quality materials for natural-looking results.
What are dental bridges?
Just as the name suggests, dental bridges fill in the space left behind by several missing teeth in a row. They are made up of crowns covering natural teeth on each side of the gap (referred to as abutment teeth) and the artificial teeth between.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
In addition to improving the aesthetics of your smile, patients with a dental bridge in place can enjoy the following benefits:
- Restored ability to eat and speak properly
- Retain youthful facial contours
- Evenly distribute bite force
- Prevent natural teeth from drifting out of position
The dental bridge procedure
The process for receiving a dental bridge typically involves several appointments. During the first visit, the teeth on each side of the gap are prepared for the dental crowns by removing a small layer of enamel. Each dental bridge is fabricated to precisely fit the patient’s mouth, so impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory. Once the bridge is ready, patients can return for a final fitting check and permanent placement of the dental bridge.
How long do bridges last?
Dental bridges can last a long time (decades or longer) with proper care. The most important thing you can do is practice good oral hygiene. Dental bridges can become loose if the surrounding bone becomes damaged by gum disease. Make sure you are brushing twice a day and flossing every day. Also, it’s important to maintain routine check-ups and cleanings with Dr. Patton so we can monitor your oral health and the fit of the dental bridge.
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
If you are in the Columbia, MO area and are missing teeth, call the office of Chase Patton D.D.S. at (573) 875-7040 to find out if dental bridges are right for you
