Dental Bridges Cromwell, CT

When one or more of your teeth are missing, the issue is more than just an aesthetic abnormality — missing teeth can also negatively impact your oral health by causing other teeth to shift out of place. This can result in more tension when biting, increased pain during chewing, an uneven bite, or even the impairment of speech. A dental bridge restores the appearance and health of your mouth by filling the spaces left by missing teeth with a restoration supported by either your natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of both. At Preferred Dental of Cromwell in Cromwell, CT, our team of experienced dentists provides patients with dental bridges crafted from only high-quality and medical-grade materials. These natural-looking teeth replicas will help to restore your beautiful smile, as well as your oral health. If you have experienced tooth loss, or if you have damaged or decayed teeth that may need to be replaced, please schedule a consultation with one of our dentists to learn more about your restoration options with dental bridges.

Although missing teeth are unsightly, patients who experience tooth loss may not realize the full impact that it can have on their dental wellness. The fact is: your mouth is carefully balanced so a missing tooth can affect its function and the ease with which you bite, eat, and even speak. Over time, a missing tooth can lead to teeth shifting, creating bite problems (underbite, overbite, crossbite) and atrophy of the gums and jawbone. A dental bridge requires the surrounding teeth to be strong enough to support the restoration, which includes having sufficient jawbone density and gums. Our dentist will assess your mouth during your exam and consultation to help you decide the best bridge type (traditional, cantilever, Maryland bonded, or resin bonded) and material (porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain fused to metal) for your needs, goals, and budget.

After your teeth have been prepped for treatment, a member of our team will take digital x-rays and impressions of your teeth and have them sent to our dental laboratory so your custom bridge can be created. If your restoration uses your natural teeth for support, these teeth will be filed down to accommodate your bridge. If needed, a temporary bridge or restoration can be placed while your final one is being made. Once your bridge is ready (which could take up to two weeks), we will secure it in its correct position. The bridge will either be clasped in place to your existing teeth or attached to dental implants, depending on the support you and our dentists chose during your treatment planning session. Once your custom-made bridge has arrived at our office, we will carefully adjust the fit so your bite and the wear is comfortable.

You should notice an improvement in the appearance and function of your teeth following the placement of your personalized dental bridge. You may need a second visit at Preferred Dental of Cromwell to adjust the fit of your restoration if it feels uncomfortable in the first few weeks after placement. A member of our dental team will show you how to maintain your bridge, including the best way to clean it and any foods to avoid. It is crucial to keep your bridge and mouth clean since cavities can still develop underneath the restoration. With proper care, your bridge can last for many years. You should continue to schedule appointments at Preferred Dental of Cromwell for your annual dental exams and bi-annual dental cleanings. During your yearly dental evaluations, we will monitor the condition of your bridge to determine if it needs to be repaired or replaced.

Dental restorations, like bridges, are typically partially covered by dental insurance. One of our team members will work with your insurance company to determine your coverage and calculate any out-of-pocket costs. Preferred Dental of Cromwell accepts many forms of payment, including medical financing, which can be discussed during your consultation with one of our dentists. We will also help you select the best bridge type and material to fit both your needs and budget.

Even if you don't mind how you look with a missing tooth, it can lead to long-term problems if treatment is not sought out as soon as possible. To improve both the health and beauty of your smile, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists to learn more about dental bridge restorations and the different options available to fit your specific needs. Preferred Dental of Cromwell is proud to offer high-quality dental restorations that can help improve the appearance and health of your smile. Contact our office in Cromwell, CT to schedule your appointment today.