Dental Bridges Specialist in Somerset, NJ

A dental bridge is an artificial tooth, or often teeth, used to fill a gap left by one or more missing teeth. Bridges are anchored by crowns placed on the natural teeth or by dental implants. This restoration method not only fills the gap but also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting, which could lead to bite or jaw problems and further tooth loss.

Dental bridges are custom-made to blend in with the natural teeth, restoring both the aesthetic appearance of one’s smile and the ability to chew and speak comfortably.

The procedure for placing a dental bridge typically involves preparing the teeth by reshaping them for the crowns that will support the bridge. Impressions of the teeth are then taken to create a model from which the bridge, crowns, and artificial tooth, will be made. A temporary bridge may be put in place to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is made. Once ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is adjusted and placed, restoring the functionality and appearance of your teeth.

Dental bridges may be recommended for individuals who have one or more missing teeth. Suitability for bridges and other dental procedures will be made on an individual basis in consultation with providers at MidJersey Family & Implant Dentistry.

Gaps left by missing teeth can lead to a wide range of dental health issues. These include the shifting of remaining teeth, which can affect your bite and lead to further tooth loss or damage. By filling these gaps, dental bridges help maintain the integrity of an individual’s remaining teeth and jaw structure, ensuring they can continue eating, speaking, and smiling confidently. Dental bridges help improve and maintain structural integrity and aesthetics while preserving oral health and preventing future complications.

Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge can also help distribute the forces in your bite more evenly, preventing wear and tear on your natural teeth. Bridges may also be an alternative to dentures or dental implants, offering a less-invasive fixed solution that looks and feels more natural.

With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges offer a long-term solution to oral health concerns. Dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer. The longevity of a bridge depends on several factors. These include the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.

Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and going for regular dental check-ups and cleanings at MidJersey Family & Implant Dentistry can extend the life of your bridge. It’s also important to avoid chewing certain hard foods or objects that could damage the bridge. The durability of a dental bridge is also influenced by the material it’s made from. Bridges can be crafted from a variety of materials, including ceramics, porcelain, and more, each with its own set of advantages and lifespan.

Providers at MidJersey Family & Implant Dentistry will talk patients through the advantages of their many options. By following your dentist’s recommendations for care and attending regular dental appointments for check-ups, you can ensure that your dental bridge remains in good condition for as long as possible.

The timeline for fitting a dental bridge after a tooth extraction varies depending on several factors, including the health of your gums and the specific circumstances of your tooth loss. Typically, it’s recommended to wait until the extraction site has fully healed before proceeding with a bridge. This healing process can take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks.

This is because the gums and bones need to be in the best possible condition to support the new bridge effectively. During this waiting period, your dentist may fit a temporary bridge or denture to fill the gap and help you adjust to the feel of having a bridge. This also serves to protect the area and maintain the space for the permanent bridge. After the healing period, your dentist will assess the site to ensure it’s ready for the bridge fitting process, which includes preparing the abutment teeth as well as taking impressions, and eventually placing the permanent bridge.

Dental bridges are available at MidJersey Family & Implant Dentistry. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 107 Cedar Grove Ln Suite 102, Somerset, NJ 08873. We serve patients from Somerset NJ, New Brunswick NJ, Highland Park NJ, Piscataway NJ, Hillsborough NJ, Manville NJ, South Bound Brooke NJ, and surrounding areas.