Dental Bridges in Pompano Beach, FL
Dental bridges offer a permanent solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. At Wave Dental in Pompano Beach, FL, Helem Gutierrez creates custom bridges that restore your smile's appearance and function while preventing the complications associated with missing teeth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that spans the gap left by missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns attached to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restore Function: Chew and speak normally again
- Prevent Shifting: Keep remaining teeth in proper position
- Maintain Face Shape: Prevent facial sagging from tooth loss
- Natural Appearance: Custom-designed to blend with your smile
- Durable Solution: Last 10-15 years or more with proper care
- Fixed in Place: No removal required like dentures
- Boost Confidence: Smile without worrying about gaps
Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Bridge: Most common type, supported by crowns on adjacent natural teeth
Cantilever Bridge: Supported by a crown on one side only, used when there's only one adjacent tooth
Maryland Bridge: Uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth
Implant-Supported Bridge: Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, ideal for multiple missing teeth
The Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically requires two appointments:
First Visit:
1. Helem Gutierrez prepares the supporting teeth by removing some enamel
2. Impressions are taken to create your custom bridge
3. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth
4. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory
Second Visit:
1. The temporary bridge is removed
2. Your custom bridge is checked for fit and appearance
3. Adjustments are made as needed
4. The bridge is permanently cemented in place
Caring for Your Bridge
Maintain your bridge with:
- Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily using a floss threader or water flosser
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge
- Not using teeth as tools
With proper care, bridges can last 10-15 years or longer.
Am I a Candidate?
Dental bridges are ideal for patients who:
- Are missing one or more teeth
- Have healthy teeth adjacent to the gap
- Have adequate bone support
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Want a permanent tooth replacement option
Helem Gutierrez will evaluate your oral health to determine if a bridge is the right solution for you.
Bridge vs. Other Options
Bridges vs. Dentures: Bridges are fixed and feel more like natural teeth; dentures are removable
Bridges vs. Implants: Bridges require altering adjacent teeth; implants don't affect other teeth but require surgery
Replace missing teeth with a beautiful, functional bridge. Call Wave Dental at 954-941-4410 to schedule your consultation in Pompano Beach, FL.