Restore Missing Teeth with a Dental Bridge
Large gaps due to missing teeth can certainly detract from your smile and impact the ability to chew. More importantly, however, these spaces can negatively effect your complete oral health. At Harris Dental Clinic in Laurel, MS, Dr. Chadwick J. Harris and Dr. R. Brent Culpepper offer dental bridges to restore our patients’ smiles. This tried-and-true teeth replacement option has been used for decades to help individuals achieve optimal function and aesthetics. For qualifying patients, dental bridges can offer long-lasting restorative results.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer a wide range of cosmetic and oral health advantages. For example, these restorations can:
- Fill in gaps and spaces in your smile
- Improve the way your teeth fit together
- Prevent shifting of remaining teeth
- Help reduce the risk for TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)
- Reduce the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and bone atrophy
- Improve eating and speaking function
- Offer more stability than removable partial dentures
- Fill out facial features and reduce the appearance of hollowed cheeks
Exploring Candidacy for Dental Bridges
Bridges are most appropriate for those missing one to three teeth in a row. Individuals who are missing more teeth than that may wish to consider alternative options, such as partial dentures or dental implants. Additionally, dental bridge candidates should not have periodontal disease or widespread tooth decay. If these issues are present, our dentist will likely address them first so that you can have a strong foundation for your new restoration. At Harris Dental Clinic, we also place implant-supported bridges. If you are interested in pursuing this option, we will work alongside a local, trusted oral surgeon for the highest quality care available.
Dental bridges are most appropriate for patients who are missing one to three consecutive teeth.
Dental bridges have been used for decades to help patients achieve optimal function and aesthetics.
What to Expect during Dental Bridge Treatment
Dental bridge placement can typically be completed in two office visits. During the first appointment, we will alter the natural tooth on either side of the space. Any existing decay is also removed at this time. Once the teeth are prepared, dental impressions are taken. These molds are sent to a dental lab, where a trained technician crafts your custom restoration. In general, this process can take two to four weeks. In the meantime, a temporary bridge will be placed to fill in the gap and protect your natural teeth.
When your dental bridge is complete, we will schedule you for a second visit. During this appointment, the temporary restoration is removed and the final bridge is bonded into place. To ensure a proper fit, Dr. Harris or Dr. Culpepper will assess your bite and make any necessary adjustments. The result is a complete, attractive, and fully functional smile.
Contact Harris Dental Clinic Today
Harris Dental Clinic has been serving individuals and families in the Laurel area for over 40 years. When you choose our practice, rest assured you will be receiving top-tier, compassionate care. During your consultation, we can help determine the most effective treatment for your needs. We also offer CareCredit® financing for our patients’ convenience. To learn more, or to schedule a visit, call (601) 649-3344 or send us a message today.
