Bridges in Plainville, MA
A fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth, anchored to the teeth or implants on either side of the gap.
A dental bridge literally bridges a gap: a replacement tooth is held in place by crowns on the teeth beside it, or by implants. It is fixed in your mouth, so there is nothing to take out at night.
What’s included
- Fixed replacement for one or more missing teeth
- Supported by neighboring teeth or by implants
- Helps keep surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap
- Restores chewing and the look of a full smile
- Designed by a dentist with a special interest in prosthodontics
About Bridges
When your teeth are missing, it greatly affects your smile. At the same time, the missing tooth has the potential to negatively affect your oral hygiene because of unprotected gum exposure. Dental bridges are one of many options aimed at improving the appearance and function of your teeth by replacing the missing tooth or teeth. During your exam, we will discuss whether or not dental bridges are right for you.
Why Fill the Gap
Teeth rely on their neighbors to stay in position. When one is lost, the teeth beside it can tilt into the space and the tooth above or below can drift toward it. Over time that can change your bite, create areas that trap food and make cleaning harder. A bridge holds the space and restores a continuous row of teeth, so chewing forces are shared more evenly. It is also a fixed option, which many patients prefer to a removable partial denture. A traditional bridge does require reshaping the supporting teeth for crowns. When those teeth already have large fillings or crowns, that is often an advantage; when they are untouched, an implant may be worth considering. Dr. Naiman will lay out both.
What to Expect
A traditional bridge usually takes two visits. At the first, the supporting teeth are numbed and shaped, impressions are taken and a temporary bridge is placed. At the second, the custom bridge is checked for fit, bite and appearance, then cemented. If implants are supporting the bridge, the implants are placed and allowed to heal first, then the bridge is attached to them. Caring for a bridge means cleaning underneath the replacement tooth as well as around it. We will show you how, using floss threaders or small brushes, so the supporting teeth and gums stay healthy.
Common Questions
How long does a dental bridge last?
Is a bridge or an implant better?
Does getting a bridge hurt?
Can I eat normally with a bridge?
What is an implant supported bridge?
Terms You May Hear
- Pontic
- The artificial tooth in a bridge that fills the space left by a missing tooth.
- Abutment Tooth
- A natural tooth or implant that supports one end of a bridge.
- Floss Threader
- A flexible tool used to guide floss under a bridge to clean beneath the replacement tooth.
Related Services
Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?
Living with a gap? Call (508) 695-7674 to find out whether a bridge, an implant or another option suits you best.