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What Is a Dental Bridge?

If you have lost one or more teeth, a dental bridge might be the right choice for you. Bridges are a good way to replace missing teeth and improve the look and function of your smile. You might have difficulty chewing, hesitancy smiling, or trouble speaking. No matter how you lost your tooth, our family dentist, Dr. Christine Chen at Valley Smiles can help provide some relief.

At Valley Smiles in Renton, Washington, our family dentists, and team want to help you maintain your brightest smile. We will work with you to determine whether a dental bridge is right for filling in the gap left by missing teeth, so your smile can get back to normal.

father and son smiling

What Is the Dental Bridge Procedure?

There are three main types of dental bridges: traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges. For any of these, the process begins by having the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth, prepared. To prepare the teeth, the dentist removes some of the enamel to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. The dentist then takes impressions of your teeth to use as a model for the bridge and crowns and provides you with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums until the bridge is ready.

Once the bridge is completed, it will be fitted to your mouth and adjusted as necessary to ensure an ideal fit and proper bite. Several visits may be necessary to adjust the bridge. When the time comes the dentist will cement the bridge into place.

Maintaining Dental Bridges

Smiling young woman receiving dental checkup. close up view.
Keeping the rest of your teeth healthy is one of the most important ways to maintain your dental bridge. Because the bridge relies on surrounding teeth as its foundation, the health of those teeth ultimately determines the success of the bridge. Brushing your teeth twice daily and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups every six months are both key to keeping your teeth healthy and your bridge in good shape.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

In addition to the cosmetic dental benefits of restoring your smile, dental bridges are key to maintaining the health and function of your mouth. Dental bridges can restore your ability to speak and eat and help improve your bite. They also help maintain your face shape and keep other teeth from shifting out of alignment.

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