Dental bridges have been used in dentistry for many years. They are an effective way to replace missing teeth and can help to restore your smile. A dental bridge is designed to look like your natural teeth and can be matched to the color of your teeth. It can be used on its own or  attached to dental implants for optimal stability.

If you are searching for dental bridges Denver or a dental bridge near me, we can help. To schedule a consultation at our Cherry Creek dental practice, please call DeWitt Dental Associates at (303) 321-5656 or complete the online booking form. We have restored smiles with dental bridges for patients from Englewood, Centennial, Cherry Creek and across the Denver metro area.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of two parts: the pontic and the abutment. The pontic is the artificial tooth that fills the space of the missing tooth. The abutment supports the pontic and is usually made from metal or porcelain, and is attached to the natural teeth on either side of the space. The porcelain dental bridge is then cemented into place. Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

  • Provide an effective alternative for people who are not dental implant candidates
  • Provide an option when dental implants are not an option financially
  • Improve your chewing ability
  • Prevent your teeth from shifting out of place
  • Restore your speaking ability
  • Improve the overall appearance of your mouth
  • Restores smile

Why Dental Bridges Are Important

Replacing missing teeth in the mouth is important. Teeth need other teeth for support to stay aligned. If missing teeth are not replaced, adjacent teeth can shift and tilt, resulting in a bad bite and difficulty eating. Additionally, missing teeth can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Missing teeth can also lead to changes in the bone beneath your teeth, causing them to deteriorate, leading to a shrunken jaw appearance. Dental bridges can help to prevent these future problems and restore your smile.

Types Of Bridges

pixilstudio-dewitt-010 (2)

The type of bridge you choose will be based on several factors, including the missing tooth’s location, the adjacent teeth’ health, and your budget. 

The three most common types of dental bridges are:

  • Traditional: A traditional bridge is made from porcelain or ceramic and is attached to the natural teeth on either side of the space. Used when healthy teeth are on either side of the missing tooth.
  • Cantilever: A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but only attached to one natural or abutment tooth. It is used when only one healthy tooth is next to the space.
  • Maryland: A Maryland bridge is made from porcelain or metal and is attached to the back of the natural teeth on either side of the space and used when the missing tooth is in the front of the mouth.
  • Implant-supported: An implant-supported bridge is much more invasive than a traditional bridge and uses dental implants as the support.

The Dental Bridge Process

Getting a dental bridge usually takes two visits to our Cherry Creek dental office. During the first visit, we will prep your teeth and take impressions. The traditional and cantilever bridges require one or two dental crowns on either side of the missing teeth to support the bridge or pontic. Then the impressions will be used to create your porcelain dental bridge. We will also fit you with a temporary bridge, so your smile is not affected during the waiting period. 

We will remove the temporary bridge and cement your new porcelain dental bridge at your second appointment. We will make the necessary adjustments to ensure that your new dental bridge fits comfortably and looks natural.

CEREC® Dental Bridges

Our office uses CEREC technology to create porcelain dental bridges. CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This technology allows us to create your crown in the office so you can leave with your restoration complete in one day! CEREC porcelain dental bridges are made from high-quality porcelain that is strong and durable. The porcelain can be matched to the color of your teeth so that it looks natural.

Dental Bridge Maintenance

pixilstudio

Once your bridge is in place, it is important to take care of it so that it lasts many years. A proper oral hygiene routine is vital. 

Proper bridge maintenance includes:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily
  • Visit our Cherry Creek dental office regularly for exams and cleanings
  • Eat a healthy diet and avoid hard and sticky food.

How Long Does A Dental Bridge Last?

Porcelain bridges can last for many years with proper care. However, over time they will eventually need to be replaced. The porcelain can chip or break, and the metal underneath can wear down. You will need to get a new porcelain dental bridge when this happens.

Denver Dental Bridge Specialists

At DeWitt Dental Associates, we aim to help you achieve and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. We offer a full range of dental services, including porcelain dental bridges. We use the latest technology, including CEREC porcelain bridges, to provide our patients with the best possible results. If you are missing one or more teeth and are searching for dental bridges Denver, or a dental bridge near me, we can help. To schedule an appointment at our Cherry Creek dental practice, call (303) 321-5656 or complete the online booking form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a Dental Bridge Change How I Speak?

It is common for patients to have a lisp, pronunciation challenges, or speak differently after getting dental bridges. This is because the tongue needs to get used to the new bridge. The lisp should disappear after a few days as your tongue gets used to the bridge.

Do Porcelain Dental Bridges Look Natural?

Yes, porcelain dental bridges can look very natural. The porcelain can be matched to the color of your teeth, and the bridge will be designed to fit in with your smile.

Are Dental Bridges Permanent?

No, dental bridges are not permanent. They are made from strong, durable materials but will eventually need to be replaced as the porcelain can chip or break, and the metal underneath can wear down. However, with proper care, porcelain bridges can last for many years.

What Is the Difference Between a Porcelain Dental Bridge and an Implant?

An implant is a metal rod that is surgically placed in the jawbone. A porcelain bridge is a false tooth held in place by metal clasps or dental crowns on the adjacent teeth.

How Much Does a Porcelain Dental Bridge Cost?

The cost of a porcelain bridge will vary depending on the individual case. Factors that can affect the cost include the number of teeth missing and whether the adjacent teeth need to be prepared.

Do Dental Bridges Hurt?

There is usually no pain involved in getting a porcelain bridge. However, the adjacent teeth may be sensitive for a few days after the dental bridge is placed.