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Questions About Your Dental Bridge

Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, Oakleaf, Orange Park

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge contains one or more artificial teeth and is cemented in place permanently. It is similar to a partial denture, but you do not remove it from your mouth and it is far superior.

Why would I choose a dental bridge over other tooth replacement options?

A dental bridge is a more comfortable and healthy solution for replacing missing teeth than a partial denture. It will not slip, so there is no rubbing on the gums and no difficulty chewing or speaking naturally. You do not remove it for cleaning or at any other time so it is also much more convenient and no one ever sees you without your teeth.

Dr. Blankenship may also recommend a dental bridge as an alternative to a dental implant if you do not have enough jawbone density, width, or height to support an implant. A dental bridge is also less expensive than an implant and the procedure is less invasive.

Why is it important to replace missing teeth if they are not visible in a smile?

Even in the back of your mouth, people can see that you are missing a tooth. You may not feel that is a big concern, but missing teeth can do serious damage to your dental health, can cause cosmetic dental problems, and can cause pain.

Over time your teeth will shift into the space, for lack of anything holding them in their proper positions. This causes crookedness and misalignment that can lead to a painful jaw joint condition called Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). Missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and more tooth loss.

Will my dental bridge look and function like my natural teeth?

Yes. The artificial teeth in your dental bridge will be carefully crafted to match your original teeth in shape and color. Dental porcelain reflects light much as tooth enamel does, making them visually alike.

Being fixed in place, your bridge will function like natural teeth with no slipping or moving around when you chew and talk.

Will my dental bridge be permanent?

Eventually your dental bridge may need to be re-cemented or replaced, but it will be very long-lasting. A dental implant is the only truly permanent solution for a missing tooth.

If you have more questions about dental bridges, please contact us today to schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation with Dr. Blankenship. Our dental office serves the Ponte Vedra and Oakleaf, Jacksonville, Florida areas, and we look forward to working with you.