Dental Bridges in Hamilton, NJ

Why Should You Consider a Dental Bridge?

Missing teeth affects more than just the appearance of your smile. For this reason, a dental bridge from our dentists in Hamilton, NJ, may be a smart choice, especially if you want to:

• Restore your ability to chew comfortably. Even a single missing tooth can make certain foods difficult to eat. A bridge helps you enjoy a more complete diet again.
• Improve speech and clarity. Teeth play an important role in pronunciation. Replacing missing teeth can make it easier to speak clearly and confidently.
• Prevent teeth from shifting. When a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth may gradually drift into the empty space, causing misalignment and potential jaw discomfort.
• Enhance your appearance. A complete smile often makes you look younger and feel more confident in social and professional situations.

Types of Dental Bridges for Residents in Hamilton, NJ

During your consultation, our dental team will evaluate your specific needs and determine the best type of bridge for you. The two most common types are traditional fixed bridges and implant-supported bridges.

Traditional Fixed Bridges

Traditional fixed bridges are one of the most common solutions for replacing a missing tooth or a small row of teeth. This type of fixed partial denture consists of:

• Pontics: The artificial teeth that fill the gap.
• Abutment Teeth: The natural teeth on either side of the space, which are prepared to support the bridge.

The abutment teeth are gently reshaped and fitted with dental crowns, and the pontic is attached between them for a cohesive appearance. Traditional dental bridges are a great option if your neighboring teeth are healthy enough to support crowns and you want a solution that feels stable and natural in your mouth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges do not rely on your neighboring teeth for support. Instead, they are anchored to dental implants placed in the jawbone. This option can be especially helpful if:

• You are missing several teeth in a row.
• Your adjacent teeth are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge.
• You want a long-lasting, highly stable solution.

An implant-supported bridge can feel very similar to your natural teeth and is designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Bridge in Our Hamilton Office

During your first visit, our dentists will evaluate your teeth, gums, and bite and may take X-rays or digital scans. We’ll talk about your concerns, answer your questions, and help you decide whether a traditional or implant-supported dental bridge is right for you.

If you are proceeding with a traditional fixed bridge, we will prepare the abutment teeth by gently re-contouring them to make room for the crowns. An impression (mold) of your teeth is then taken. This impression is sent to a specialized dental laboratory where your custom bridge, pontic, and crowns will be crafted to perfectly match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Before you leave, we will place a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth.

Once your custom bridge is ready, you will return for your second visit. We will remove the temporary bridge and carefully check the fit, bite, and aesthetics of your new, permanent bridge. After making any minor adjustments, your dentist will permanently cement the bridge into place, instantly restoring your smile.

A Note About Implant-Supported Bridges

If an implant-supported dental bridge is recommended, the process will be more involved and may take place over several months to allow the implants to fully integrate with your jawbone before the bridge is attached.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridges

Good home care and regular dental visits are the key to keeping your dental bridge looking and functioning its best. Our team will provide personalized instructions, but in general, you should:

• Brush Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and bridge thoroughly.
• Clean Around the Bridge Daily: Special floss threaders, interdental brushes, or water flossers can help you clean under and around the pontic and along the gumline.
• Floss Daily: Don’t forget to floss between your natural teeth to keep your gums healthy and prevent decay from forming near the bridge.
• Visit Us Regularly: Routine dental cleanings and checkups allow us to monitor your bridge, make any needed adjustments, and catch potential issues early.
• Be Mindful of Hard Foods: While bridges are durable, chewing ice, hard candies, or other very hard objects can still cause damage.