A missing tooth leaves more than a gap between existing teeth. It leaves a gap in your smile and could change the way you speak, talk, and look. However, residents of Colton, CA, don’t need to live with a space in their smile where a tooth used to be. With the help of Dr. Terry Vines of Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry, the missing tooth can be reconstructed or replaced through crowns, bridges, or dental implants.
Bridges are a popular choice for replacing a missing tooth. Bridges can give you back the smile you used to love, allow you to speak and chew naturally, and keep the remaining teeth securely in place. A dental bridge is supported by natural teeth or implants that are on both sides of the space from the missing tooth. The bridge is created from two crowns on the existing teeth adjacent to the gap and a false tooth in between.
If you have a missing tooth, visit Dr. Vines to discuss your options. During your first visit, Dr. Vines will prepare the supporting teeth by removing a small portion of the enamel. This is necessary to allow space for the crowns which will be placed. Next, Dr. Vines will take impressions from which the false tooth, the bridge, and the crowns will be created. While you wait for the bridge to be created, you will wear a temporary bridge to protect your teeth.
During the second visit, Dr. Vines will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent piece. He will ensure that it fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments. When both you and Dr. Vines are sure that it fits properly, he will cement it into place.
Care of the dental bridge is the same as care for the natural teeth, with the added step of flossing under the bridge with a floss threader. You will need to brush and floss daily, to be sure that the surrounding teeth stay strong and healthy. Additionally, maintaining a regular schedule of visits with your dentist will ensure your at-home care is effective.
Dr. Terry Vines and his team of dentists and professional staff care about the health of your smile. The team at Pure Gold Professionals in Dentistry will work with you to determine the best treatment plan to give you the results you want! Call today to schedule a consultation.