Dental Bridges  

What Are Dental Bridges?  

A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) that are anchored in place by neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. They literally “bridge” the gap left by missing teeth, restoring the bite and preventing neighboring teeth from shifting out of place. Bridges are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile.  

How Dental Bridges in Mishawaka Can Help You  

Dental bridges offer both cosmetic and functional benefits, transforming your smile while also improving oral health. Here’s how bridges can help you:  

• Restore Chewing and Speaking Ability – Missing teeth can make it hard to chew and speak clearly. Dental bridges effectively restore these functions, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and converse with confidence.  
• Prevent Shifting Teeth – When a tooth is lost, adjacent teeth may begin to drift into the empty space, causing alignment issues and increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Bridges keep teeth securely in place.  
• Improve Facial Shape – Missing teeth can lead to a sunken or aged appearance. Dental bridges provide support to your cheeks and lips, maintaining your natural facial structure.  
• Enhance Appearance – A dental bridge fills the gap in your smile and is custom-designed to blend naturally with your other teeth, enhancing your overall appearance. 

The Dental Bridge Process  

Getting a dental bridge is a straightforward and efficient process, performed over just a few visits to our office. Here is what to expect when you choose us to restore your smile with a dental bridge:

Initial Consultation  

During your first visit, Dr. Mike Hewlett or Dr. Andrew Zaremba will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays of your teeth and gums. We’ll discuss your goals and determine if a dental bridge is the right solution for you.  

Preparation  

After confirming that you’re a candidate for a dental bridge, the adjacent teeth (also called abutment teeth) will be prepared to support the bridge. This involves removing a small layer of enamel to make room for the crown portion of the bridge. 

 Impressions and Temporary Bridge  

Next, we’ll take precise digital scans of your teeth to ensure the bridge fits perfectly. We’ll send these scans to a dental lab, where the bridge is custom-crafted to match your bite and tooth color. While the permanent bridge is being made, we’ll fit you with a temporary bridge for protection and functionality. 

 Fitting and Placement  

Once your custom bridge is ready, we’ll schedule a final fitting. After ensuring the bridge fits comfortably and looks natural, it will be secured in place using dental cement or attached to dental implants. You’ll leave our office with a beautiful, restored smile. 

How to Care for Your Dental Bridge  

With proper care, dental bridges in Mishawaka can last for many years and provide excellent results. Here are a few tips to keep your bridge in top condition and maintain your oral health:  

• Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once a day, using a floss threader or water flosser to clean under the bridge.  
• Regular Dental Checkups – Visit us at least twice a year for professional cleanings and exams to ensure your bridge and surrounding teeth stay healthy.  
• Watch Your Diet – Avoid biting down on hard items like ice or nutshells, which could damage the bridge. Stick to a balanced diet to promote oral health.  
• Monitor for Changes – If you notice any discomfort, looseness, or damage to your bridge, contact our office right away. Prompt care can prevent further complications. 

Why Choose Twin Branch Dental for Your Dental Bridges?  

At Twin Branch Dental, we take pride in offering high-quality restorative services tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Dr. Mike Hewlett and Dr. Andrew Zaremba are experienced and compassionate professionals dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Our team uses the latest dental technology and techniques to ensure your dental bridge is durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing. Plus, we offer emergency dental, family dentistry, and more! And don’t forget to check out our smile gallery for before and after pictures!

Don’t wait to reclaim your smile and confidence. If you have missing teeth and want to learn more about dental bridges in Mishawaka, schedule an appointment with Twin Branch Dental today. Together, we’ll work toward a solution that brings out the best in your smile!