One or more teeth missing from the smile can have a significant impact on the smile. Not only do patients feel self-conscious about the appearance of their smiles, but they may experience difficulty eating or speaking as well. Without immediately addressing tooth loss, patients may also be putting themselves at risk of shifting teeth and bone loss. To maintain a healthy, functioning smile, patients in the Charlottesville, Virginia area will want to speak to a dental professional about the benefits of dental bridges.

What is a dental bridge for a missing tooth?

A dental bridge is a tooth/teeth replacement option for patients in the area of Charlottesville, VA. Dr. Daniel Bearley and his team at Bearley Dental describe it as a solution that “bridges the gap” between teeth. The dental bridge is best for replacing one or more teeth in a row, where adjacent teeth are available for support. Just like a bridge that spans a river needs support on each side of the river.  A bridge in the mouth also needs this support.  Those supports are the teeth that are adjacent to the space.  That is because the bridge has crowns on each side designed to fit over the teeth on each side, acting as a bridge. Without adjacent teeth, the bridge has nothing to affix itself to and has no support.

Dr. Daniel Bearley recommends porcelain bridges, which look like natural teeth. They blend in with the smile because they are custom-made for the patient based on the color, shape, and size of their existing teeth. Whether you need a bridge for the front teeth or a bridge for the teeth near the back of the mouth, our team can help.

Who is a candidate for dental bridges?

Patients with tooth loss who have surrounding teeth may want to ask their dentist about placing a dental bridge. In some situations, the dentist may utilize dental implants on one or both sides to support the bridge. A consultation visit and initial evaluation with our team is the first step in determining candidacy.

Video Transcript

A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.

Call Dr. Daniel Bearley today to discuss dental bridges

Whether you are thinking about a dental bridge for your smile or are wondering if you are a candidate, our team at Bearley Dental can answer your questions. Call (434) 443-8034 to request an appointment at 901 Preston Avenue in Charlottesville, VA.