If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be experiencing difficulties with chewing, speaking, and even confidence in your smile. At All On Smile, we offer dental bridges, a reliable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring the function and appearance of your smile. Serving patients in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Suwanee, our dental team is dedicated to providing customized, high-quality bridges that help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that is used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally “bridging” the gap left by the missing tooth. A bridge consists of two or more crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) and one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) in between. The pontics are typically made of porcelain or other durable materials, and the entire bridge is designed to blend in with your natural teeth.
Dental bridges are used to:
- Restore the appearance of your smile
- Improve your ability to chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position
At All On Smile, we custom-make each dental bridge to ensure a perfect fit and natural appearance.
Types of Dental Bridges at All On Smile
There are several types of dental bridges available, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs, the location of the missing tooth, and your overall oral health. Our dental team will work with you to choose the right type of bridge for your situation.
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type and is used when you have natural teeth on either side of the gap created by the missing tooth. This type of bridge involves placing crowns on the adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) and anchoring the artificial tooth (pontic) in between. Traditional bridges are strong and durable, making them a popular choice for replacing teeth in the back of the mouth.
Advantages of traditional bridges:
- Strong and long-lasting
- Ideal for replacing molars or other teeth that withstand heavy chewing forces
- Custom-made to match the appearance of your natural teeth
Cantilever Dental Bridges
A cantilever dental bridge is used when there is only one natural tooth available to support the bridge. This type of bridge is anchored to a single abutment tooth rather than two. While cantilever bridges can be effective in certain situations, they are not recommended for areas of the mouth that experience significant biting forces, as this can place additional stress on the abutment tooth.
Advantages of cantilever bridges:
- Ideal for situations where only one abutment tooth is available
- Can restore the appearance of your smile even with limited support
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is used when you have multiple missing teeth and want a more permanent and stable solution. Instead of using crowns or adjacent teeth for support, this type of bridge is anchored by dental implants placed directly into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are highly durable and provide the most secure and long-lasting results.
Advantages of implant-supported bridges:
- Strong and stable, offering the best long-term solution
- Prevents bone loss in the jaw associated with missing teeth
- Does not require altering adjacent teeth
When Do You Need a Dental Bridge?
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be the best solution for restoring your smile and preventing further dental issues. Missing teeth can lead to a range of oral health problems, including:
- Difficulty chewing and speaking
- Shifting of adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment
- Increased risk of decay and gum disease in the remaining teeth
- Changes in the shape of your face due to bone loss in the jaw
At All On Smile, we’ll assess your oral health and discuss your options to determine if a dental bridge is the right choice for you.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits for patients who are missing teeth, including:
- Restoring Your Smile: A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, restoring the appearance of your smile.
- Improving Function: Bridges allow you to chew and speak more comfortably, improving your overall quality of life.
- Preventing Shifting of Teeth: By filling the gap, a bridge prevents your remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to bite issues and misalignment.
- Preserving Facial Structure: Replacing missing teeth helps maintain the shape of your face by supporting the surrounding tissues and preventing bone loss in the jaw.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge. With the right oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits, your bridge can last for many years. Here are some tips for maintaining your dental bridge:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily, paying special attention to the area around the bridge
- Use an interdental brush or floss threader to clean under the pontic (the artificial tooth)
- Visit All On Smile for regular checkups and cleanings to monitor the condition of your bridge
By taking care of your dental bridge, you can enjoy a functional and beautiful smile for years to come.
Dental Bridges for Patients in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Suwanee
At All On Smile, we’re proud to offer dental bridges to patients in Alpharetta, Marietta, and Suwanee. Whether you need to replace a single missing tooth or multiple teeth, our team is here to help. We’ll work with you to choose the best type of bridge for your needs and ensure that your bridge fits comfortably and looks natural.
Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation Today
If you’re missing teeth and looking for a reliable solution to restore your smile, a dental bridge may be the perfect option. Schedule a consultation at All On Smile today to learn more about how bridges can benefit you. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile that lasts.