Whether you’re missing one or several consecutive teeth, having gaps in your smile can take a massive toll on your overall wellbeing. Your teeth are necessary tools that you use to complete everyday tasks, such as chewing food to absorb nutrients and speaking, and without them, these can become difficult and frustrating to do. That’s why, at Cornerstone Dental, we custom craft dental bridges that close gaps in your smile and restore the overall function and appearance of your mouth. If you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth, be sure to schedule a consultation with our team today to learn more about the benefits of dental bridges in Fargo.
A dental bridge’s structure consists of two crowns placed on either side of pontics, or replacement teeth. They’re typically crafted from natural-looking and customizable materials such as ceramic and porcelain to match surrounding teeth so they seamlessly blend in with the rest of your smile. The crowns are anchored to the natural teeth on either side of the gap in your smile, securing the pontics in place and filling the space created by your missing teeth.
Another form of dental bridge is an implant-retained one. The primary difference between the two are that, while traditional bridges are anchored to your natural teeth, ones retained by dental implants are held in place with titanium posts that are surgically placed below your gums. This option provides a variety of unique benefits, including not needing to alter your existing natural teeth in order to place the restoration.
Some benefits of getting a dental bridge that our patients are able to enjoy include:
Getting a dental bridge in Fargo typically takes place over the course of two appointments. During your first, Dr. Goodwill or Dr. Majidian will examine your mouth and take impressions of the gap in your smile. We will then send the information we’ve gathered to our dental laboratory, who will craft your dental crown to comfortably and securely fit in your mouth.
Once we receive your permanent restoration, we’ll contact you to come in for your second appointment. After making sure that the restoration fits our high standards, we’ll cement it to your existing teeth and polish the area. Before we send you on your way, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks on how to extend the lifespan of your bridge and maintain your oral health.
Dental bridges in Fargo have been used for generations to treat consecutive tooth loss. If you've lost a tooth or two over the years, your dentist at Cornerstone Dental can fill the gap in your smile using a solution that looks and feels natural. We understand it's a big commitment, which is why we'll explain everything during your consultation. While you wait for your appointment, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about dental bridges.
A dental bridge is designed to provide long-lasting results. Either crowns or dental implants are used to secure your bridge, so only a trained professional can remove it. If you're interested in an option you can take out, ask your dentist about the benefits of a partial denture.
Dental implants are more expensive upfront than a traditional bridge, but they are the most cost-effective overall. Unlike regular bridges and crowns, dental implants can last for decades, so you'll never have to budget for replacements. Not to mention, dental implants are the only method of replacing the roots of your teeth. As a result, they stop bone loss and prevent many common issues caused by missing teeth. You're less likely to need costly dental work later to save even more money down the road.
Traditionally, a dental bridge will last for about 10 years before needing to be replaced. However, many factors affect the lifespan of a bridge, like the materials used and how many teeth it's replacing. You can get the most from your investment by committing to good brushing and flossing habits. It's best to limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Avoid eating hard or chewy foods often. If you suffer from bruxism, ask your dentist for a nightguard to safeguard your smile from grinding and clenching. If you chew on your fingernails or use your teeth in place of tools, break the habits to ensure your bridge thrives for years. Besides caring for your bridge at home, don't forget to visit your dentist in Fargo every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup.
You can use your dental insurance to cover many aspects of your treatment plan, like your consultation, imaging, or impressions. Your benefits may also include any preliminary procedures, like tooth extractions or gum disease therapy. Dental bridges are considered a major service, so they are typically covered by 50% after meeting your deductible. Be aware, dental coverage differs when using an implant-supported solution. No matter the method, a member of our team will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize your annual benefits to keep a complete smile within your budget. They will explain how your coverage is being used and your payment options for any remaining balance, like monthly payments with CareCredit.