Dental Bridges in Asheville, NC

As the name suggests, the patient can easily remove a removable bridge for cleaning. A fixed bridge is bonded into place and cannot be removed by anyone other than a dental professional. A fixed bridge is more stable than a removable bridge. 

Permanent teeth replacement is essential to overall oral health. Eating, speaking, and chewing are more difficult if you have missing teeth and do not replace them. Over time, your jawbone deteriorates. Your face may take on a sunken appearance. Your remaining teeth will shift because of the empty tooth sockets left behind by the missing teeth.

Gum disease is one of the most significant risks if you do not replace missing teeth. Fortunately, dental bridges can restore your teeth and help maintain your oral health. 

Precision placement and attachment of a dental bridge require two or three appointments. At the initial appointment, Dr. Abbott, Dr. Deresciuc or Dr. Ayala prepare the teeth on either side of the missing teeth to securely support the bridge. They remove part of the enamel and dentin from the adjacent teeth. Impressions of the teeth are then taken to ensure the dental lab can construct a bridge that looks like your natural teeth and fits comfortably.

Fixed bridges are cemented to your natural teeth using dental crowns to support the false teeth. Removable bridges are clamped or attached to the adjacent teeth with metal components that allow the bridge to be removed as needed. 

Various materials are used for bridges, including non-precious metal alloys, gold alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Many dental bridges are created by bonding porcelain to a metal alloy.

If you have a fixed bridge, you need to brush and floss every day, preferably twice a day, to keep the bridge and your teeth clean. If you have a removable bridge, clean it as you would a denture to keep it clean and fresh. Most individuals clean their removable bridge at the same time they brush and floss their teeth.

With proper care and regular checkups with your dentist, a dental bridge can last 10-15 years. Eventually, they need replacing due to normal wear and any changes in your oral structure that may impact their fit or comfort.

For most people, getting used to their new teeth and any changes in their bite takes only a few days. It takes a few weeks to become accustomed to their dental bridges for others. During this time, avoiding excessively hot or cold foods can help with any tooth sensitivity.