(847) 579-4979

 560 Oakwood Ave, Ste 102, Lake Forest, IL 60045

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Schedule A Consultation

Deerpath Orthodontics & Family Dental

Phone: 847 579 4979
Address: 560 Oakwood Ave, Ste 102, Lake Forest, IL 60045

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Bridges

HomeBridges

At Deerpath Orthodontics and Family Dental, we know that missing teeth can affect much more than just your smile. Missing teeth can have an impact on how we eat and speak, our oral health, and our confidence. Permanent dental bridges offer a secure way to restore your smile and return your confidence.

What Is a Dental Bridge? Filling Gaps, Supporting Healthy Teeth

Dental bridges do exactly what their name implies – they bridge the gap that is left behind by a missing tooth. They consist of two parts: an artificial tooth, or pontic, that replaces the missing tooth, and then a dental crown that is a covering for the healthy teeth so the bridge can be securely anchored in place.

Permanent bridges offer many benefits to our patients:

  1. Your mouth can go back to doing its job – a bridge allows you to eat, speak, and chew without difficulty.
  2. Our bridges are designed to blend in seamlessly with your natural smile.
  3. You don’t need to worry about your smile shifting because a bridge will prevent the surrounding teeth from drifting into the spot left by the missing tooth or teeth.
  4. A bridge can prevent bone loss, thereby helping to maintain your natural face shape.
  5. A permanent bridge will be fixed in your mouth and, with proper care, can last for years.

Is a Bridge Right for Me?

The process to get a dental bridge begins with a consultation. We use several factors to determine if a bridge is right for you, including:

  • Your age
  • How many teeth are missing
  • The size of the gap
  • The condition of the teeth on either side of the gap
  • The health of your gums

If we determine a bridge is the correct restoration for your smile, we’ll start by preparing the adjacent teeth. These teeth will be gently shaped so crowns can be placed over them. We’ll take a digital impression so your bridge can be custom-created. We often use a temporary bridge while you wait for your permanent one to be created. Once ready, your permanent bridge will be fitted, secured, and then polished to ensure your comfort and ideal function.

To ensure the life of your bridge, proper care is important. Brush and floss daily and avoid excessive pressure from chewing hard food or ice. It can be helpful to use a water flosser to properly clean around the bridge. It’s also important to maintain all regular dental appointments and cleanings. Your bridge can last up to 15 years with proper care.