Dental Bridges in South Hadley, MA
Missing teeth affect more than your smile. Gaps can expose sensitive gum tissue, make chewing harder, and allow neighboring teeth to shift out of place. Dental bridges are one of the most dependable ways to restore both the appearance and function of your teeth by replacing one or more missing teeth with a fixed, natural-looking restoration. At Baltazar Dental, Dr. Felicia Baltazar will evaluate your smile during your exam and help you decide whether a dental bridge is right for you in South Hadley, MA .
How a Dental Bridge Works
A traditional bridge “bridges” the gap left by missing teeth. It consists of one or more replacement teeth, called pontics, held in place by crowns on the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Once cemented, the bridge stays securely in place and functions much like your natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restore your natural smile and appearance
- Improve chewing and speaking
- Prevent neighboring teeth from drifting into the gap
- Help maintain your bite and facial shape
- Fixed in place, so there’s nothing to remove at night
- Protect exposed gum tissue in the gap
The Bridge Process
Evaluation
Dr. Baltazar begins with an exam and digital X-rays to make sure the supporting teeth and gums are healthy. Any decay or gum disease is treated first.
Preparation and Impressions
The supporting teeth are numbed and gently shaped to make room for the crowns. Impressions are taken, and the shade is matched to your natural teeth. A temporary bridge protects the area while your final bridge is made.
Placement
When your custom bridge is ready, we check the fit, bite, and appearance before permanently cementing it in place.
Bridges vs. Other Replacement Options
A bridge is a great fit for patients missing one or a few teeth in a row with healthy teeth on either side. Other options include removable partial dentures, full dentures, and implant restoration. We’ll explain the benefits of each so you can choose confidently.
Caring for Your Bridge
Brush twice a day and clean under the bridge daily with a floss threader or interdental brush to keep the supporting teeth and gums healthy. Regular cleanings and exams help your bridge last for many years. Explore more restorative dentistry services or learn about porcelain crowns.
Dental Bridges FAQs
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring replacement teeth to crowns on the neighboring teeth.
Who is a good candidate for a bridge?
Patients missing one or a few teeth in a row who have healthy teeth on either side of the gap and healthy gums are often good candidates.
How long does it take to get a bridge?
A bridge typically requires two appointments: one to prepare the teeth and take impressions, and one to place the final bridge.
Does getting a bridge hurt?
The area is numbed during preparation, so most patients feel little discomfort. Mild sensitivity afterward is usually temporary.
How long do dental bridges last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, bridges can last many years.
How do I clean under a bridge?
Use a floss threader, special bridge floss, or an interdental brush to clean under the replacement tooth and around the supporting crowns each day.
Where can I get a dental bridge in South Hadley, MA?
Baltazar Dental in South Hadley, MA provides custom dental bridges to replace missing teeth. Call (413) 538-7546 to schedule a consultation.
Close the Gap in Your Smile
Call Baltazar Dental at (413) 538-7546 to find out if a dental bridge is right for you.