Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges in Cleveland, OH
A missing tooth may seem like nothing more than a cosmetic dental concern, but it can have serious effects on the health of your smile, including causing other teeth to shift. If you're missing one or more teeth, it's important to seek professional dental care sooner than later to restore the appearance, function, and well-being of your smile with a tooth replacement option, such as a dental bridge. Before scheduling your consultation with the friendly team at Ryba Dentistry, here's what you should know about how a dental bridge could benefit you.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge, also called a fixed partial denture, is a custom ceramic piece bonded into a patient's mouth to fill in the space of a missing tooth. The prosthetic tooth is held in place by anchors cemented to the teeth adjacent to the empty space. An in-office evaluation by a dentist is the best way to find out if a ceramic bridge is the right solution for your situation. A good candidate for a dental bridge is missing one or more teeth, practices good oral health habits, and has strong surrounding teeth to support the bridge.
What Are the Benefits of a Dental Bridge?
The major advantage of tooth bridges is that they are permanent; they don't come out like dentures. Additionally, they don't require bone surgery or healing time, as dental implants do. Best of all, they can be completed in as little as two visits, function like normal teeth, and look great.
The disadvantages of dental bridges are that they may not last as long as other tooth replacement options as they can be affected by tooth decay, can be challenging to keep clean, and may require removal or replacement if the support teeth become compromised.
Permanent Dental Bridge Process
Your dental bridge placement will take place over two appointments. During your first visit, the support teeth are reshaped so that they are retentive for the bridge. Then, a digital impression is taken, and a temporary bridge is placed. Your permanent ceramic bridge will be cemented into place at your second appointment, which is scheduled about two weeks out.
How Long Will a Tooth Bridge Last?
Ceramic bridges can last indefinitely if the support teeth are adequately cleaned and maintained. Routine brushing and flossing at home, as well as visiting the dentist for regular exams every six months, are the best way to take care of dental bridges and keep them in good condition for years to come. Extra flossing aids, such as a floss threader, are sometimes needed to clean between the fake tooth and the gum line.
Dental Bridge Cost
Out-of-pocket costs for tooth bridges vary greatly depending upon your dental insurance coverage. Our providers look forward to evaluating your specific needs and will review estimates with you after your exam.
Permanent Dental Bridges at Ryba Dentistry in Cleveland and Seven Hills
If you are tired of living with the discomfort or embarrassment of a missing tooth, the compassionate team at Ryba Dentistry can help you achieve a healthier, more attractive smile in as little as two dental appointments with a ceramic bridge. We are proud to use quality materials, provide outstanding service, and serve you in a comfortable, relaxing setting. Contact us today to learn more about your restorative dentistry options and schedule your free consultation to see if a dental bridge could improve your quality of life.
We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!