New patient:
919-726-9825

Other Callers:
919-496-3088

Dental Bridges in Louisburg, NC

Restoring Your Smile and Oral Health

Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. By “bridging” the gap created by one or more missing teeth, dental bridges can restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and maintain the shape of your face.

At Hardy Smiles, we specialize in custom-designed dental bridges that fit seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring comfort and durability.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. These abutments can be your natural teeth or dental implants. The pontics are crafted from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, gold, or metal alloys, chosen for their durability and natural appearance.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges:

  • Traditional Bridges
  • Cantilever Bridges
  • Maryland Bonded Bridges
  • Implant-Supported Bridges

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer numerous benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics:

  • Restored Functionality: They enable proper chewing and speaking, which can be difficult with missing teeth.
  • Maintained Facial Structure: Prevents the sunken facial appearance that can occur with tooth loss.
  • Preventing Tooth Movement: Adjacent teeth can shift into the gap left by missing teeth, leading to bite problems and additional dental issues.
  • Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, providing a reliable and durable solution to tooth loss.
Dental Bridge With Black BG

The Dental Bridge Procedure

There are several steps involved in the dental bridge process:

  • Initial Consultation: During your first visit, your dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays, and discuss the best type of bridge for your specific needs.
  • Tooth Preparation: The abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to make room for the crowns. If dental implants are being used, this step involves the surgical placement of implants.
  • Impressions: An impression of your teeth is taken to create a custom bridge that fits perfectly.
  • Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being crafted, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
  • Fitting the Permanent Bridge: Once ready, the permanent bridge is fitted, adjusted for comfort, and permanently cemented into place.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care and maintenance of your dental bridge are crucial to ensure its longevity and the health of your remaining natural teeth:

  • Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Special floss threaders can help clean under the pontic.
  • Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist will help monitor the condition of your bridge and the health of your abutment teeth.
  • Healthy Diet: Avoid overly hard or sticky foods that can damage your bridge.
  • Address Issues Promptly: If you experience any discomfort or damage to your bridge, contact your dentist immediately.

Who is a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Most people with missing teeth can benefit from a dental bridge, but certain factors will influence your eligibility:

  • Oral Health: Healthy gums and strong bone structure are necessary for supporting the bridge.
  • Commitment to Oral Care: A dedication to maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial.
  • Adequate Tooth or Implant Support: There must be sufficient natural teeth or implants to support the bridge.

Dr. Hardy will conduct a thorough examination to determine if a dental bridge is the best solution for you.

Alternatives to Dental Bridges

While dental bridges are an excellent option for many, alternative treatments may be more suitable in certain situations:

  • Dental Implants: Single implants can replace individual missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
  • Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures are another option for replacing multiple teeth.
  • No Treatment: In some cases, if the missing teeth are not causing functional or aesthetic problems, no treatment may be needed.

Each option has its pros and cons, which your dentist will discuss with you to help you make an informed decision.

Cost of Dental Bridges

The cost of a dental bridge can vary widely based on several factors:

  • Type of Bridge: Traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges have different price points.
  • Materials Used: Porcelain and ceramic bridges tend to be more expensive than metal alloys.
  • Number of Missing Teeth: The complexity of the bridge increases with the number of teeth being replaced.
  • Geographic Location: Costs can vary based on the location of your dental clinic.

Insurance often covers a portion of the cost, especially if the bridge is deemed medically necessary.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation Today

Dental bridges are a reliable and effective way to restore your smile and oral functionality.

The team at Hardy Smiles in Louisburg is committed to providing high-quality dental bridges tailored to your needs. Our experience and state-of-the-art technology ensure that your dental bridge will improve your oral health as well as boost your confidence and overall quality of life.

If you are considering a dental bridge or have any questions about the process, schedule a consultation with us today. Let us help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that you can be proud of. Call us at (919) 726-9825 or click here to request an appointment

DENTAL FINANCING OPTIONS AT HARDY SMILES

Our office is in-network with all major insurance providers. Please bring your insurance card to each appointment so we can make sure your information is as up-to-date as possible. If you do not find your insurance provider here; please call at (919) 726-9825 for clarity.

CASH

CHECK

DEBIT AND CREDIT

FSA

Frequently Asked Questions

When you are looking at your tooth replacement options, we understand that questions are likely to surface. We are happy to address those at any time. Below are a few of the most common ones that we hear:

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer with proper care, including good oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups.

The procedure for getting a dental bridge is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used during the preparation of abutment teeth, ensuring comfort. Some mild discomfort may occur after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Use special floss threaders to clean under the pontic. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor the health of your bridge and surrounding teeth.

Yes, you can eat most foods with a dental bridge. However, you should avoid very hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. Adopting a healthy diet helps maintain the longevity of your dental bridge.

Experience Dentistry At Its Finest Here.

Schedule your Visit
Skip to content