Dental Bridges
in Greenbelt, MD

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What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration that literally "bridges" the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of replacement teeth anchored by crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the space. When you're missing teeth, everyday activities like eating and speaking can become challenging, and you might feel self-conscious about your smile. At McCarl Dental Group, our dental bridges are crafted to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth, helping restore both your confidence and oral function.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Restore Your Complete Smile

A bridge fills unsightly gaps with natural-looking replacement teeth that blend seamlessly with your smile. The transformation can be remarkable, especially if you've been hiding your smile due to missing teeth.

Maintain Proper Bite Alignment

When a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth can gradually shift into the empty space, causing bite problems and potential jaw pain. A bridge helps maintain proper spacing and alignment, preserving your comfortable bite.

Improve Speech and Eating

Missing teeth can affect how you pronounce certain sounds and limit which foods you can enjoy. A well-fitted bridge restores your ability to speak clearly and chew comfortably.

The Dental Bridge Process

Step
1

Consultation and Planning

We'll examine your teeth and discuss whether a bridge is the right option for your specific situation. Using digital imaging, we'll evaluate the health of the supporting teeth and develop a personalized treatment plan that considers both function and aesthetics.

Step
2

Preparing the Supporting Teeth

To create space for the bridge, we'll carefully reshape the teeth on either side of the gap. Our gentle approach and effective numbing techniques ensure your comfort throughout this process. We'll then take detailed impressions that serve as the blueprint for your custom bridge.

Step
3

Temporary Bridge Placement

While your permanent bridge is being crafted in the dental lab, we'll place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain your appearance. This temporary solution gives you a preview of how your new bridge will look and feel.

Step
4

Final Bridge Placement

When your custom bridge arrives from the lab (typically within a couple of weeks), you'll return for a final appointment. We'll carefully check the fit and appearance of your bridge, make any necessary adjustments, and then securely bond it in place for long-lasting function and beauty.

Frequently asked questions

How long do dental bridges last?

With proper care, a dental bridge typically lasts 10-15 years, though many of our patients enjoy even longer lifespans for their restorations. Regular check-ups, good home care, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or using your teeth as tools will help maximize the lifespan of your bridge.

Is getting a bridge painful?

Your comfort is our priority during any procedure. We use effective local anesthesia to ensure you don't feel pain during the tooth preparation process. After appointments, some patients experience mild sensitivity in the prepared teeth, but this typically resolves quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

How do I care for my dental bridge?

Caring for a bridge involves keeping the supporting teeth and gums healthy. We recommend brushing twice daily with a soft toothbrush, daily flossing with special floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean under the bridge, and regular professional cleanings. We'll provide detailed care instructions and recommend specific tools that make maintenance easy.