Dental Bridges in Longmont, CO

At our Longmont dental office, we offer dental bridges as a way to restore missing teeth so that our patients are no longer too embarrassed to smile. A dental bridge consists of one or multiple artificial teeth (called pontics) that are anchored in place by two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap. The artificial teeth, which are made of porcelain, match the color and appearance of your natural teeth for a strong bite and an attractive, natural-looking smile. And not only does a bridge make your smile more pleasing, it also prevents other complications that can occur as a result of missing teeth, such as a bad bite, gum disease and TMJ (jaw) problems.

The Benefits of Dental Bridges

  • A restored smile that is beautiful, natural-looking and free of gaps
  • An improved ability to chew and speak properly
  • A strengthened bite that more evenly distributes chewing force, preventing excess pressure on remaining teeth
  • Anchors surrounding teeth in position, preventing them from shifting
  • Helps to maintain the shape of your face

Candidates for Dental Bridges in Longmont

Dental bridges can be a favorable solution for patients who are missing one or more consecutive teeth, which are surrounded by healthy teeth with strong roots to support the bridges. For patients who are not missing a full set of teeth, dental bridges can offer an appropriate alternative to complete dentures. During your consultation, Dr. Amy Farmer will help determine if dental bridges in Longmont are the right option for you.

Types of Dental Bridges

We offer both fixed and removable bridges (also known as partial dentures) to patients who wish to restore missing teeth. Depending on such factors as the patient’s age and the health of their remaining teeth, we may recommend using one over the other.

Fixed bridges

As the name suggests, fixed bridges are placed using permanent crowns on the surrounding teeth to hold the bridges firmly in place. Unlike removable bridges, a fixed bridge cannot be taken in and out of the patient’s mouth in order to clean it. These bridges look and feel natural and are very durable — usually lasting anywhere from 10 to 20 years.

Removable Bridges

Removable bridges, also called partial dentures, are not permanently affixed, but can be taken in and out of the mouth. They are held in place in the mouth with clasps that fasten onto the surrounding teeth.

The Dental Bridge Placement Procedure

The dental bridge placement process, both for fixed and removable bridges, requires two office visits. At the first visit, Dr. Farmer will recontour the teeth surrounding the gap, in preparation for the placement of crowns; she will then place temporary crowns over them as well as a temporary bridge. She will then make an impression of your bite that will be used to make your permanent bridge, the artificial replacement tooth or teeth and (for a fixed bridge) the permanent crowns.

On your second visit, Dr. Farmer will place your permanent bridge. For a fixed bridge, Dr. Farmer will remove the temporary bridge before placing the permanent bridge in position to check for a proper bite. She will then use dental cement to bond the bridge in place. For a removable bridge, Dr. Farmer will place the bridge in position to check for a proper fit and bite, but it will not be fixed permanently in the mouth.

Dental Bridge Placement — Recovery and Aftercare

Patients may experience some mild discomfort and tooth sensitivity after having a fixed bridge placed permanently in the mouth. These effects are usually very mild and typically last no longer than a few days after the procedure. Fixed bridges can be cleaned and cared for just like your regular teeth. Removable bridges will need to be removed and cleaned at night using a soft-bristled toothbrush and special denture solution.

When cared for correctly, your dental bridges should last for many years. However, similar to teeth, dental bridges can be damaged, so it is important to treat them with care and to avoid chewing on ice and other hard objects. During your regular checkups Dr. Farmer will examine your bridges to make sure they are in good condition.

Call Crossroads Dental of Longmont Today

Find out more about bridges and the other dental options available for replacing and restoring teeth by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Farmer. Call Crossroads Dental of Longmont today at (303) 776-1480.