If you are missing one or more consecutive teeth, Gwaltney Dental has the restorative dentistry services you need to restore your smile. We offer dental bridges as one of our tooth replacement options in Suffolk, VA. Dental bridges are supported by your surrounding teeth and hold a prosthetic tooth in place of a missing tooth. This helps prevent teeth shifting while also cosmetically restoring your smile following tooth loss.
Learn more about dental bridges below.
Dental Bridges in Suffolk, VA
Dr. Steve Gwaltney, Dr. J.Ryland Gwaltney, and Dr. Whitney Gwaltney are here to offer you tooth replacement options in Suffolk, VA. They are restorative dentists with over 30 years of expertise in providing high-quality dental care. When you come to our office with a missing tooth or several missing teeth, your doctor will evaluate your smile and offer you a treatment plan that is individualized to your individual needs.
Dental bridges are an efficient and effective treatment option for patients looking to replace their missing teeth.
The Dental Bridge Process
We will apply bridge hardware to the exterior of the teeth surrounding your missing tooth. Some enamel removal will be required to make space for the bridge hardware. Often, patients may even choose to add extra support to their dental bridge by having two dental crowns placed over the supporting teeth to ensure that the bridge is held firmly in place. The bridge application does not require a surgical procedure, and can usually be completed within two appointments.
After the bridge is in place, it may take up to two weeks to fully adjust. We suggest avoiding extremely cold and hot foods because your teeth may be sensitive. Additionally, using sensitive toothpaste will help avoid pain and discomfort. If you are in a lot of pain after a few weeks, please reach out to one of our dentists.
Patients should consider their long-term goals when choosing a tooth replacement option. While bridges are efficient and effective, they will require more maintenance than other options. Patients will need to learn how to brush and floss around and underneath the dental bridge to ensure there is no bacteria or food residue caught in the hardware. Additionally, patients will be advised to avoid certain chewy or crunchy foods to avoid damage to the bridge hardware.
Alternative to Dental Bridges
Dental implants are another excellent option for patients who are considering their tooth replacement needs. While dental implants require a surgical procedure in addition to an extended healing time, they also allow patients to avoid the dietary restrictions and oral hygiene hazards that come with dental bridges.
Your doctor will go over all of your options during your restorative dentistry consultation and help you determine which tooth replacement option best meets your needs.
Bridges FAQs
Can food become stuck under a bridge?
Food can easily become stuck beneath or around a bridge since there is a gap underneath the prosthetic tooth. It’s crucial to have routine dental exams to ensure that your dental bridge is properly fitting and that the area around it is clean and healthy. Carrying floss threaders and/or dental brushes with you will assist you to remove food particles from between your teeth.
How long after a bridge can I eat?
It could be difficult to eat hard foods for the first few days because your gums and teeth in the area of the procedure may still be sensitive. We recommend sticking to a soft diet and avoiding sticky foods for the first 24 hours after getting a permanent crown. After this, you can resume your normal habits of eating and drinking.
What holds a bridge in your mouth?
Bridges may be secured using a dental implant, or dental cement. An implant is the most secure and stable way to place a bridge because it is attached to your jawbone. If you have any questions about what is the best way to secure your bridge, call our office! Our team is happy to answer any questions!
Replace Missing Teeth in Suffolk, VA
If you are missing teeth in Suffolk, VA, our doctors are here to help you restore your dental health. Our dental care team is equipped to restore your smile with advanced tooth replacement treatment options under one roof. Schedule an appointment with Gwaltney Dental online. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.