Suffering with an open space in your smile can cause you to feel a wide array of emotions, none of which are positive. First, you may feel disappointment if the open space is the result of a problem like periodontal disease. You may also deal with embarrassment when it comes to the way your smile looks – so much so that you may try to hide your smile or cancel social plans. Patients also tend to struggle with debris becoming trapped in the spaces while they eat, which makes mealtime difficult. Fortunately, we offer dental bridges to complete your smile. Wondering if this is right for your tooth loss pattern and needs? Learn more to find out:
Is A Dental Bridge Right For Me?
Unlike implants, which work for any type of tooth loss configuration, dental bridges are only effective if you are missing one tooth, two teeth side-by-side, or three teeth in a row. A bridge is fixed, which means we will cement it in place. It will stay put, offering great stability. You will not be able to remove it during the day, which is something you can expect from a partial.
How Will It Work?
A bridge functions quite simply, offering effective completion of your smile. It is composed of a series of connected artificial teeth called crowns and pontics. One dental crown rests on each end of the bridge – each crown will be cemented permanently over the “anchor tooth” – or remaining natural tooth – that sits on either side of the open space in your smile. The teeth that will be situated within the end crowns are called pontics – they will fill the opening in your smile.
Customizing Your Treatment
We will examine your smile and take impressions to prepare for your bridge. We will explain the different materials available for your bride, while coming to a conclusion together. In most cases, we will compose your prosthetic out of tooth-colored material that we can color-match to your remaining smile for a beautiful, lifelike finish that nobody will be able to detect.
ABOUT YOUR ANKENY DENTIST:
Since 2006, Dr. Amanda Foust has proudly treated families in Ankeny, Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, schedule an appointment with your Ankeny, IA dentist today. You can reach Dental Impressions by calling (515) 965-0230.
