Have you considered replacing a missing tooth? If you are missing one tooth or multiple teeth, you may have started to explore your options for tooth replacement. There are several tooth replacement options to choose from, and talking to a dentist at Colonia Dental Associates can help you make an informed and educated decision.
A dental bridge may be a possibility to replace missing dentition. Bridges may also be referred to as fixed dental restorations. Bridges can restore the missing dentition in your smile. They act as a bridge with “abutment” teeth serving as the anchors. Abutment teeth must be in good health. Dental bridges are custom-made to your specifications and will fit precisely. Our dentists at Colonia Dental Associates have completed the prestigious Rutgers University AAID MaxiCourse, bringing advanced post-graduate training in restorative and implant dentistry to every bridge placement we perform.
To learn about dental bridges in Colonia, NJ, contact the cosmetic dentists at Colonia Dental Associates today.
A dental bridge may be a possible restorative dentistry option if you are missing any of your teeth. A bridge can restore missing teeth and can positively impact phonetics (speech), esthetics, and chewing function. Dental bridges can also increase confidence over time, leading to a positive overall impact on quality of life.
People can experience several issues when living with missing teeth for a long period of time. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth loss is a sensitive indicator of overall dental health, and significant disparities in partial tooth loss remain among certain adult populations across the United States. Missing one or multiple teeth can result in the shifting of teeth over time, which would need to be corrected with orthodontic treatment. Cleaning of gum tissue may become more challenging with shifting teeth and may result in issues like cavities or periodontal concerns.
A dental bridge is a fixed partial denture made up of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, held in place by dental crowns placed over the natural teeth on either side of the gap. There are several types of dental bridges, and our dentists will recommend the most appropriate option based on your specific oral health needs.
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type. It uses dental crowns placed over the two healthy teeth on either side of the gap — called abutment teeth — to anchor the pontic securely in place. A cantilever bridge works similarly but requires only one healthy abutment tooth, making it a consideration in specific situations. An implant-supported bridge replaces the need for abutment crowns entirely by anchoring the restoration to dental implants placed in the jaw. Our team will discuss which type of bridge is the best fit for your smile and your long-term oral health goals.
Getting a dental bridge typically takes two or more appointments. At the first visit, our dentists prepare the abutment teeth by reshaping them so that dental crowns can be placed over them properly. Dental impressions of the area are then taken and used to fabricate your custom bridge at a dental laboratory.
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth while your permanent restoration is being crafted. Once the final bridge is ready, it is fitted, adjusted for comfort and function, and permanently cemented into place. Our dentists take care to ensure that your bridge blends naturally with your surrounding teeth in both appearance and bite alignment.
With proper care, a dental bridge can last many years. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential — brushing twice a day, flossing around and under the bridge, and attending regular dental checkups all contribute to the longevity of your restoration. Our dentists will provide specific aftercare instructions tailored to your bridge type and placement.
Colonia Dental Associates welcomes patients from Colonia, Avenel, Carteret, Clark, Edison, Iselin, Rahway, and surrounding communities throughout Woodbridge Township, NJ. If you are ready to explore dental bridge treatment or other tooth replacement options, our team is here to help you find the right solution for your smile.
Do you want to learn more about dental bridges? Contact Colonia Dental Associates today. We serve residents of Colonia, NJ, as well as the surrounding areas of Avenel, Carteret, Clark, Edison, Fords, Iselin, Linden, Piscataway, Port Reading, Metuchen, Rahway, Sewaren, and South Plainfield.
A dental bridge is a fixed or long-term dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants.
A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth by using crowns placed on natural teeth or implants as support, holding the artificial tooth securely in place.
Ideal candidates for dental bridges are individuals with one or more missing teeth, good oral hygiene, and strong adjacent teeth that can support the bridge.
The main types of dental bridges include traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridges.
The process typically requires two or more dental visits over a few weeks. The first visit includes preparation and impressions, while the second involves fitting and cementing the bridge.
With proper care, dental bridges can last 5 to 15 years or even longer. Timely dental visits and good oral hygiene help lengthen their lifespan.
While bridges are long-lasting, they may need replacement over time due to usual wear and tear, changes in surrounding teeth, or gum recession.
Yes, modern dental bridges are designed to match your original teeth, providing a seamless look.
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing (2 times) daily, flossing around the bridge, using a fluoride mouthwash, and visiting your dentist timely for check-ups.
Yes, but it’s advisable to stay away from extremely hard or sticky foods that may put excess pressure on the bridge. Eating a balanced diet helps upkeep its durability.
The procedure is not painful as local anesthesia is used during preparation. Some sensitivity may occur after placement, but it typically subsides within a few days.
In some cases, minor damage can be repaired, but if the bridge is significantly worn or broken, it may need to be replaced.
Leaving a gap can cause teeth to shift, affect your bite, lead to jawbone loss, and increase the risk of further dental issues.