At Sally Powell, DDS, we understand how missing teeth can impact both the function and appearance of your smile. If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be the ideal solution to restore your smile and prevent further dental issues. Our team, led by Dr. Powell, provides high-quality, durable bridges that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, helping you regain your confidence and oral health.
We’re proud to serve patients in Columbia and surrounding Missouri, including Hallsville, Ashland, Boonville, Rocheport, and Fayette. Call 573-474-8566 today to schedule your appointment.
“Do I Need a Dental Bridge?”
A dental bridge may be the right choice if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Missing Teeth: If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can effectively fill the gap and restore your smile’s completeness.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Missing teeth can make it hard to chew your food properly or speak clearly. A dental bridge can restore your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
- Preventing Shifting: When teeth are missing, the surrounding teeth may shift out of alignment. A dental bridge helps maintain proper alignment and prevents further dental issues.
- Aesthetic Concerns: If you feel self-conscious about gaps in your smile, a dental bridge can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.
How Dental Bridges Work
Restoring your smile with a dental bridge is a straightforward process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation: Dr. Powell will begin with a consultation to assess your oral health and discuss whether a dental bridge is the best solution for you.
- Preparation: If a bridge is recommended, the teeth adjacent to the gap are reshaped to accommodate crowns that will support the bridge. If dental implants are needed, Dr. Powell will discuss this option with you.
- Impression: A digital impression of your teeth will be taken using advanced 3D scanning technology—no messy materials required. This ensures that your custom bridge fits perfectly.
- Fabrication: We use high-quality materials to craft your bridge, often utilizing computer technology to ensure precision and durability.
- Placement: Once your custom bridge is ready, it is securely placed over the prepared teeth or attached to implants, filling in the gap and restoring your smile.
- Final Adjustments: Dr. Powell will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bridge fits comfortably and functions properly.
Types of Dental Bridges
We offer different types of dental bridges to meet your specific needs:
- Traditional Fixed Bridges: These are supported by crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap and are the most common type of dental bridge.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when only one adjacent tooth is available for support, this type of bridge is anchored by a single crown.
Why Choose Sally Powell, DDS for Dental Bridges?
At Sally Powell, DDS in Columbia, we provide personalized, high-quality care to ensure your dental bridge restores both the function and beauty of your smile. Dr. Powell and our experienced team take the time to assess your individual needs and create custom solutions designed to fit comfortably and look natural.
FAQs About Dental Bridges
Q: What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or implants. It literally “bridges” the gap where teeth are missing.
Q: How long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years with proper care, and some can last even longer. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene help extend their lifespan.
Q: What are the different types of dental bridges?
The main types include traditional bridges (anchored to crowns on adjacent teeth), cantilever bridges (supported by one adjacent tooth), and implant-supported bridges (anchored to dental implants). Traditional bridges are the most common.
Q: Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, once you adjust to your bridge, you can eat most foods normally. Avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge, and cut tough foods into smaller pieces initially.
Q: How do I clean my dental bridge?
Clean your bridge by brushing twice daily and using floss threaders or water flossers to clean underneath the artificial tooth. Special bridge floss and interdental brushes can help remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.
Q: What happens to my adjacent teeth with a bridge?
The teeth supporting a traditional bridge (called abutment teeth) are reshaped and crowned to hold the bridge in place. This permanent alteration is why some patients choose implants instead of bridges.
Schedule Your Consultation for a Dental Bridge Today
If you’re considering a dental bridge to replace missing teeth, Sally Powell, DDS is here to help. Our expert team is committed to restoring your smile and improving your quality of life with comprehensive restorative care. Please call 573-474-8566 to schedule your appointment today!