Bridges in Lakeland, FLORIDA

Sometimes patients lose a tooth due to an injury, illness, or tooth decay. If you’re missing one or more teeth, our team at Crosby Dentistry can restore the function and appearance of your smile with a dental bridge. Made to look exactly like your own natural tooth, a bridge is a simple way to fall in love with your smile again.

We are dedicated to helping patients in Lakeland, FL, achieve a complete smile that feels comfortable and strong. We know that missing teeth can make it hard to enjoy your favorite foods or speak with confidence. When you visit our office in Lakeland, FL, we take the time to look at your oral health and find the best way to fill the gaps in your smile. Our team is here to provide helpful care and answer any questions you have about your treatment options.

What Is a Bridge?

A bridge is a dental device that is affixed in your mouth and is used to help fill a gap where a tooth once was and mimics the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. Usually, bridges are only used when a few consecutive teeth are missing. When more teeth are missing, a patient may be better suited for a partial or full denture.

A bridge affixes to the healthy teeth on either side of a gap, so the artificial tooth fills the gap where your missing tooth once was. The bridge is not attached to the gums and jaw where the missing tooth was except in the case of an implant-supported bridge.

Understanding the Types of Dental Bridges

There is more than one type of dental bridge available today. The right bridge for you depends on where the gap is and the health of your nearby teeth. The most common type is the traditional bridge. This involves placing dental crowns on the healthy teeth on each side of the gap. These teeth, called abutment teeth, act as anchors to hold the artificial tooth in place.

Another option is a Maryland bridge, which is often used for missing front teeth. This type of bridge uses a metal framework or a porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. Unlike a traditional bridge, it does not require a lot of enamel removal from the nearby teeth. If you only have healthy teeth on one side of the missing tooth, a cantilever bridge may be used. In cases of significant tooth loss, dental implants can be used to support longer bridges, providing a very sturdy and permanent bridge without needing to involve other real teeth.

Do I Need to Replace a Missing Tooth?

Losing a tooth creates a void in the mouth. When left unfilled, otherwise healthy teeth slowly shift into the open area in the mouth. If your teeth move too much, this can lead to discomfort, jaw pain, an uneven bite, or even headaches and TMJ disorder. When your teeth shift from their original position, new wear patterns develop on your teeth, creating unnatural stress points.

Filling the gap with a dental bridge holds your healthy teeth in place, maintaining your natural jaw position and bite. Plus, replacing a missing tooth with a bridge can help to restore your original smile, improving its appearance and your ability to chew and speak.

Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge

Many patients choose dental bridges because they offer a natural appearance and restore full oral function. A bridge is a reliable dental restoration that helps you chew properly by spreading the force of your bite across multiple teeth. This protects your back teeth and front teeth from wearing down too quickly.

Beyond function, a tooth bridge can give you back your confidence. Because these devices are custom-made in a dental laboratory, they match the color and shape of your natural teeth. This ensures that your new bridge blends in perfectly, giving you a beautiful and complete smile. Bridges are also a faster solution compared to some other treatments, as the process can often be finished in just a few visits to our office.

The Dental Bridge Procedure in Lakeland, Florida

Getting a new bridge usually takes two main visits. During the first visit, Dr. Brian Crosby will prepare the abutment teeth. This involves removing a small amount of enamel so the crowns can fit over them properly. We use a local anesthetic to ensure you stay comfortable during this part of the process. We then take an impression of your teeth to send to the lab so they can create a bridge that fits your specific needs.

While the lab makes your permanent bridge, we will place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums. Once your final piece is ready, you will return for the dental bridge placement. We use a strong dental cement to bond the bridge into place. Our team will check your bite and make small adjustments to ensure everything feels just right. Most patients only feel a bit of mild discomfort for a day or two after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How Do I Care for a Bridge?

For patients with dental appliances like bridges, optimal dental hygiene is essential. Caring for a bridge requires some special attention to keep your bridge in good shape. Maintain your regular oral hygiene routine by brushing twice per day and flossing at least once every day. Be sure to floss under your bridge to remove food or debris that may have become trapped. A specialized cleaning tool called an interdental brush can help you clean the area below the bridge.

Be sure to avoid tobacco products and dark-colored drinks that may stain the bridge and cause it to look different from your natural tooth color. Although bridges are made from strong materials, hard foods can damage them, so avoid foods like nuts and popcorn kernels. Good dental care is the best way to prevent gum disease around your abutment teeth, which is vital for the long-term success of your bridge.

Comparing Bridges and Dental Implants

When looking at ways to replace a missing tooth, you might wonder if dental implants are a better option. An implant involves a small metal post placed in the bone by an oral surgeon or dentist. This post acts as a root for a single false tooth or a bridge. While implants are a great permanent solution, not everyone has the bone strength for oral surgery.

Bridges are an excellent option for patients who want to avoid surgery or who need a quicker result. A bridge does not require bone grafting and is often covered more extensively by dental insurance. During your exam, we will discuss your goals and dental health to determine which option is right for your lifestyle and budget.

How Long Will a Bridge Last?

A bridge is a long-lasting solution for a missing tooth. With proper dental care, bridges can often last for ten to fifteen years. To maintain healthy teeth and gums and keep an eye on your dental bridge, we recommend scheduling visits with Dr. Brian Crosby at least twice per year.