/assets/production/practices/0a01563e907b9203e21d757c38f8978e3eaaccad/images/2827129.jpeg)
Bridges services offered in Gainesville, VA
If you’re missing a tooth or a small group of teeth, it can really keep you from smiling when you look in the mirror. The experienced dental team at Greenhill Family Dental Care in Gainesville, Virginia, has an excellent solution: bridges. A dental bridge can fill the holes in your smile in a natural-looking way so you can have the full smile you deserve. Call the office or request an appointment online today.
Bridges Q & A
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a tooth replacement that can give you a natural-looking prosthetic in cases where you're missing at least one tooth. Bridges are an alternative to complete or partial dentures when the gap in your teeth is smaller. There are two general types of bridges, removable and fixed:
Removable bridge
A removable bridge includes a metal frame and at least one prosthetic tooth. The metal frame attaches to the natural teeth on either side, using them for support. You remove this kind of bridge for daily cleaning.
Fixed bridge
A fixed bridge is sometimes also called a permanent bridge. Fixed bridges include prosthetic teeth, usually dental implants, and crowns. Your dentist at Greenhill Family Dental Care uses a dental-grade cement to set the replacement teeth and crown in place. The crowns cover the natural teeth on either side of your prosthetic teeth, allowing for extra support and stability.
Generally, fixed bridges are the more popular type of bridge because they're more stable.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
If you have a removable bridge, it's important that you take it out every day to clean it. You can use a denture solution or simply brush it with lukewarm water.
If you have a fixed bridge, you need to simply keep up your normal dental care routine. Brush and floss every day, but be extra cautious when flossing your bridge so that you don't use too much force and dislodge the crowns.
It's important to continue your twice-yearly visits to see your dentist at Greenhill Family Dental Care. They check the stability of your bridge at each visit and can make any necessary adjustments if needed.
What should I eat when I have a bridge?
Bridges, especially fixed ones, are quite stable and will generally allow you to eat the same way that you normally do. However, it's best to avoid taking chances by staying away from super-hard foods. Avoid chewing on popcorn kernels — a wise idea under any circumstances — and don't chew on ice.
Your dentist can give you some eating guidelines to follow immediately after you get your new bridge. You may need to be more cautious with what you eat until you've become fully accustomed to your new bridge. Many patients find it easier to stick with a soft and semi-soft food diet until your dentist can make any necessary bridge adjustments.
Want to bridge the gap in your mouth for a full smile? Call Greenhill Family Dental Care or book your appointment online today.