East Indianapolis Dental Office Discusses Dental Bridges
At Mitthoeffer Family Dental, our East Indianapolis dental office offers a range of restorative dental solutions, including dental bridges, to help patients replace missing teeth and restore their smiles. Missing teeth can lead to several problems, such as difficulty chewing, issues with speech, and even the shifting of surrounding teeth. Addressing these gaps as soon as possible is essential to maintaining oral health, and dental bridges are a reliable and effective solution.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that fills the gap left by a missing tooth. The bridge is made up of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, that are anchored in place by dental crowns placed on the surrounding natural teeth. These adjacent teeth, called abutment teeth, serve as the "anchors" for the bridge. Typically, the crowns and the pontic are made from durable and natural-looking materials like porcelain, ensuring the bridge blends seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge at Mitthoeffer Family Dental involves two main visits to our East Indianapolis dental office. Here’s what you can expect during each step of the process:
1. First Visit: Preparation and Impressions
During your first appointment, the abutment teeth—those on either side of the gap—are prepared. This involves filing down these teeth to ensure the crowns will fit comfortably over them. Once the teeth are prepared, we will take detailed impressions of your teeth. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your custom bridge and crowns will be crafted to fit your mouth perfectly. While you wait for your permanent bridge, a temporary bridge will be placed over the prepared teeth to protect them and maintain the appearance of your smile.
2. Second Visit: Fitting the Permanent Bridge
At your second visit, the temporary bridge will be removed, and your new custom bridge will be placed. Dr. Harsha or Dr. Hedges will check the fit, ensure the bridge is properly aligned, and make any necessary adjustments. In some cases, multiple visits may be required to ensure the bridge fits perfectly and comfortably. Once everything is in place, the bridge will be permanently cemented to the abutment teeth, restoring your smile and function.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
At our East Indianapolis dental office, we emphasize the importance of addressing missing teeth early. Dental bridges not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but also prevent other teeth from shifting out of place, helping to maintain proper bite alignment. Additionally, they can help you speak more clearly and eat more comfortably. With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, making them a worthwhile investment in your oral health.
If you’re dealing with a missing tooth and want to explore your options, don’t hesitate to contact Mitthoeffer Family Dental by calling (317) 897-5093 to learn more about how a dental bridge can improve your smile.
