Bridges

If you lose a permanent tooth due to decay or trauma, bridges can fill the gap and prevent your surrounding teeth from moving out of position. At Melillo Dental, James Melillo, DDS, Dasny Castillo-Beltran, DDS, and the team use bridges to restore smiles and encourage optimal oral health. To make an appointment, call the office in Yonkers, New York, or request one online today. 

What are bridges?

A dental bridge fills a space in your smile caused by a missing tooth. There are several types of bridges, but most feature an artificial tooth and two dental crowns. Your provider at Melillo Dental bonds the crowns to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, restoring your smile to its near-original condition.

What are the benefits of dental bridges?

Dental bridges can:

• Restore your smile
• Improve your biting and chewing abilities
• Maintain your facial structure
• Distribute the forces of your bite properly

By getting a dental bridge, you can also prevent your remaining teeth from shifting. When your teeth are properly positioned, they’re easier to clean and care for.

What does getting a dental bridge involve?

At Melillo Dental, getting a dental bridge takes two visits.

First bridge visit

At the first visit, your provider conducts an oral exam, takes oral X-rays, and asks about your goals. If you’re missing one (or several teeth) and there are no signs of tooth decay or gum disease, your provider administers a local anesthetic and takes impressions of your teeth and gums.

When your impressions are finished, your provider sends them to a dental laboratory. The lab uses your impressions as a guide and manufactures a bridge. 

Second bridge visit

Approximately a week later, when the lab completes your bridge, you return to Melillo Dental. Your provider bonds the bridge in place with dental crowns or a metal framework, polishes it, and provides care instructions.

Do bridges make it difficult to eat?

Once you get your dental bridge, you might notice that your bite feels a little “off.” This is perfectly normal and should subside within a week. While you’re adjusting, the team at Melillo Dental recommends cutting your food into small, bite-sized pieces. 

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges often last a decade, but you can extend their lifespan by practicing good oral hygiene. Melillo Dental recommends:

• Flossing before going to bed
• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Avoiding bad habits like chewing on pen caps or ice cubes
• Protecting your bridge with a mouthguard if you play sports
• Visiting Forrest Dental every six months for professional teeth cleaning

To see if you’re a candidate for a dental bridge, make an appointment at Melillo Dental by clicking the online scheduler or calling the office today.