If you are missing one tooth or several teeth in a row, a dental bridge may provide a reliable and natural-looking solution. Tooth loss can affect more than your appearance. It can interfere with chewing, speech and overall bite balance. At Pristine Dental Center, we offer custom dental bridges in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, to restore both function and aesthetics. This fixed restoration is designed to fill the gap left by missing teeth while preventing future oral health complications.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a nonremovable restoration used to replace one or more adjacent missing teeth. The bridge consists of an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, that is supported by dental crowns placed on the neighboring teeth. In some cases, dental implants may serve as anchors for the bridge instead of natural teeth.
The supporting crowns are carefully designed to fit securely over the adjacent teeth, holding the replacement tooth firmly in place. Because the bridge is fixed, it does not shift or move during eating or speaking. Most dental bridge treatments can be completed in two visits with our dentists.
Dental bridges are custom crafted to match the color, shape and contour of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and balanced smile.
Benefits Of Replacing Missing Teeth With A Bridge
Replacing missing teeth is important for both cosmetic and functional reasons. A dental bridge can help:
- Restore your ability to chew and speak clearly
- Maintain proper bite alignment
- Prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty space
- Reduce strain on surrounding teeth
- Improve facial structure and support
- Eliminate the need for a removable partial denture
When a tooth is lost and not replaced, nearby teeth may drift out of position. This shifting can lead to bite problems, uneven wear and increased risk of decay or gum disease. A dental bridge helps preserve the integrity of your smile.
The Dental Bridge Process
Your treatment begins with a consultation, where our dentists will evaluate your oral health and determine whether a dental bridge in Upper Darby, PA, is appropriate. If the surrounding teeth are healthy and strong enough to support crowns, they will be carefully prepared to serve as anchors.
Precise impressions are taken to ensure your custom bridge fits comfortably and securely. Once your permanent restoration is ready, it is bonded into place, restoring your smile’s appearance and function.
With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, a dental bridge can last many years. Brushing, flossing around the bridge and attending regular cleanings, will help protect both the restoration and the supporting teeth.
If you are ready to restore your smile after tooth loss, contact our office at (610) 880-3916 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ankita Lulla, Dr. Zainab Al-Azzawi Dr. Dhaval Shah, Dr. Shubhsangeet Johal or Dr. Maha Tayefeh. Our skilled dentists are committed to providing durable, aesthetic tooth replacement solutions tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, dental bridges can last 10 years or longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting our office for regular exams and cleanings helps protect the supporting teeth and extend the life of the restoration. Our dentists will monitor the bridge during routine checkups.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The dental bridge procedure is typically comfortable. Local anesthesia is used when preparing the supporting teeth to ensure you do not feel pain. Some mild sensitivity may occur afterward, but this usually resolves quickly. Our dentists will provide guidance to ensure a smooth experience.
What is the difference between a bridge and an implant?
A dental bridge relies on neighboring teeth or implants for support, while a single dental implant replaces both the root and crown of a missing tooth independently. During your consultation, our dentists will discuss which option best fits your oral health, budget and long-term goals.
How do I clean around a dental bridge?
You should brush twice daily and use floss or specialized floss threaders to clean beneath the pontic. Keeping the area free of plaque is essential to protecting the supporting teeth and gums. Our team will demonstrate proper cleaning techniques during your visit with our dentists.
9027 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082
(610) 880-3916