A missing tooth can affect more than just your appearance. It can impact your ability to chew, alter your speech, and even cause surrounding teeth to shift. At Jefferson City Dental Care, we understand the importance of a complete, healthy smile. For many of our patients in Jefferson City, Holts Summit, Ashland, and Columbia, a dental bridge is an excellent solution for restoring both function and aesthetics.
Led by Dr. Justin Johnson, our team is dedicated to providing personalized restorative dentistry. A dental bridge does exactly what its name suggests: it bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth, giving you a full, confident smile once again.
Why You Might Need a Dental Bridge
Losing a tooth can happen for several reasons, from injury and decay to gum disease. Regardless of the cause, leaving a gap can lead to further oral health complications. Neighboring teeth may drift into the empty space, causing a bad bite, jaw pain, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
A dental bridge helps prevent these issues. It is a custom-made prosthetic consisting of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, which are held in place by crowns attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. By filling the space, a bridge restores the structural integrity of your bite, allows you to chew properly, and keeps your natural teeth from shifting out of alignment.
Types of Dental Bridges Available
When you visit Jefferson City Dental Care, Dr. Johnson will evaluate your specific needs to determine the best type of bridge for your situation. There are several options to consider, each with its own benefits.
- Traditional Bridges: This is the most common type of bridge. It involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are typically made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic and are strong enough to replace molars.
- Cantilever Bridges: These are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the gap. While not very common, they can be an effective option in certain situations.
- Maryland Bonded Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these are often used to replace front teeth. They use a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the backs of the teeth adjacent to the gap, requiring less alteration of the supporting teeth.
Your Smile Restoration Journey in Jefferson City
Choosing the right dental restoration is a significant decision. At Jefferson City Dental Care, Dr. Justin Johnson and our experienced team are here to guide you through every step. We use state-of-the-art technology to design and place dental bridges that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
If you have a missing tooth and are ready to restore your smile, contact us today. We will assess your oral health and recommend the ideal dental bridge to help you eat, speak, and smile with renewed confidence.
