Dental Bridge Treatment in Albuquerque

A dental bridge is one of several options your dentist may consider if you are tired of hiding your smile. Missing, broken or severely decayed teeth can be embarrassing and unsightly. You should not have to go through life feeling anxious about social situations because of your oral issues. Luckily, there are ways to correct even the most troubling problems. Ask your dentist today about the possibility of getting a dental bridge to help the appearance of your mouth.

Making the decision

Before patients decide to get a dental bridge, they will meet with the dentist for an evaluation. The dentist will perform a thorough examination of the teeth and mouth. The staff will also take X-rays. These preliminary steps will help the dentist determine whether this is the right treatment for the patient’s needs.

Bridge overview

A bridge uses two or more crowns on either side of a gap or missing tooth. In between the crowns — where a natural tooth would be — the dentist will place false teeth. Depending on the size of the space, the dentist may need to put in multiple artificial teeth. Natural teeth or implants will support this bridge.

The process

Once both the patient and the dentist are comfortable with bridge treatment, an appointment will be made for the first step in the procedure. At this visit, the dentist will prepare the natural teeth next to the gap and will make an impression and select a color shade that matches the existing teeth. These will go to a lab. The dentist will cement a temporary bridge to the teeth, which the patient will have while the lab technician makes the permanent bridge. After two weeks, the bridge will be ready and the patient will come in for another appointment. The following will then occur:

• The dentist will numb the patient’s mouth
• The dentist will take the permanent bridge and cement it to the previously prepared teeth
• The bridge goes next to the missing teeth to replace them

Types of bridges

Many dentists will use a traditional bridge made of porcelain. A cantilever bridge is another option. This method is used when there are natural teeth on only one side of the gap. Another type of dental bridge is known as a resin-bonded bridge. This type is made of artificial teeth and gums supported by a frame usually made of metal or porcelain.

The benefits of a dental bridge

There may be some anxiety when it comes to getting a bridge. However, the short- and long-term effects can provide relief from many of the cosmetic and oral health issues patients have had. Bridges can help give patients a beautiful smile and allow them to chew more effectively. Bridges may even positively affect the patient’s speech. Many patients choose this method to help restore the shape of their face. Dentists also often recommend bridges because this treatment can help prevent adjacent teeth from moving.

Win back your oral appearance

A person’s mouth is often the first thing you will notice. Missing teeth can hamper these impressions. If you are tired of hiding your smile, call your dentist and explore the option of getting a dental bridge. The results can help you feel better about the way you look.

Request an appointment here: https://www.roderickgarciadmd.com or call Roderick A. Garcia, DMD PC at (505) 634-5029 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.