Dental Bridges in Highland Park, NJ
Customized Restorations for Tooth Loss
If you are missing a tooth, it’s in your best interest to have it replaced as soon as possible. Besides the aesthetic disadvantage of missing a tooth, it could also cause structural distortions to your mouth and jaw and make it difficult to eat or speak properly. At Zen Dental of Highland Park, our restorative dentist, Dr. Gu can restore your smile and oral health with dental bridges.
Dental bridges are specially designed pontics (false teeth) that are held in place by the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap. They’re either made from gold, metal, alloys, or porcelain to ensure that they are strong and durable. Our bridges will restore your bite and help maintain your facial shape.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
When you receive dental bridges, you’ll receive various benefits, such as:
- Improved self-confidence
- Minimally invasive placement
- Completed in two appointments
- Lasts up to 15 years with proper care
- Restores your eating and speaking ability
- Prevents jawbone deterioration
- Prevents surrounding teeth from shifting out of place
- Decreases wear and tear on your teeth
Dental Bridge Process
Initial Consultation
First, your cosmetic dentist will examine the state of your teeth and determine the best care path for you. Dr. Gu will walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
The process of creating a bridge begins by creating abutments out of your existing teeth where the bridge will be attached. The existing teeth are recontoured to provide a base for the bridge. After the abutments have been created, a mold is taken of the area which is sent to a dental lab. The lab will use the mold to create a bridge that will fit properly and feel as close to your natural teeth as possible. The bridge consists of two crowns on either end to place on the abutments and a pontic, which is the new tooth that replaces your missing tooth.
We’ll fit you with a temporary bridge while we wait for the lab to craft your permanent bridge. This will protect the abutments and the exposed gum areas and look more appealing than having a missing tooth.
When the permanent bridge has been created, you’ll come back to our office for a follow up to set your bridge. Your bridge will be placed on the abutments and your dentist will then use an adhesive to make sure that the bridge is set.
The bridge may take a little while to get used to, but after a few days, it should feel like you have your teeth back again. You should eat soft foods for the first few days after having your bridge placed. After the initial phase, you’ll be able to eat whatever you want with no issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Many people qualify for dental bridges. You’re an ideal candidate if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Are in good overall health
- Have healthy teeth
- Have a strong jawbone structure to hold the bridge
- Maintain good oral hygiene habits
Q: Are dental bridges permanent?
A: Dental bridges are permanent, however, they can last up to 15 years with proper oral hygiene habits. To increase its longevity, Dr. Gu recommends practicing pristine oral hygiene habits and visiting our Highland Park dental practice twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups.
Here are some tips you can follow to ensure your bridges last longer:
- Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss in between your teeth and gums
- Rinse your mouth in between meals
- Avoid chewy or hard food that can put stress on your restoration
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Ready to find a dental restoration that fits your dental needs? Call our Highland Park office at (732) 777-9077 to schedule an appointment with our restorative dentist, Dr. Gu.
You can also request an appointment by clicking the button below, and one of our staff members will get back to you promptly. We’re proud to provide dental restoration solutions to patients in Highland Park and surrounding areas including Bound Brook, Metuchen, and North Brunswick Township, NJ.
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