Dental Bridges in Gainesville, GA

If one or more of your teeth have fallen out, it is not just a cosmetic issue — gaps in your teeth may cause your remaining teeth to shift out of place. This may lead to more tension when biting, pain when you chew, or even impairment in your speech. A bridge improves the health and appearance of your smile by filling in gaps using a false tooth that is supported by either your natural teeth, dental implants, or both.

Our general dentist, Dr. Patrick B. Toms, in Gainesville, GA, offers dental bridges with high-quality materials to restore your bite and your smile. If you have gaps in your smile from missing teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Toms to learn more about your treatment options with dental bridges at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. 

Missing teeth are not just a cosmetic problem — spaces in your smile may heavily impact the health of your mouth. Your teeth and gums balance each other carefully and a missing tooth may affect how well they work together. Over time, gaps may lead to the shifting of teeth, causing problems with your bite (underbite, overbite, or crossbite) and gum or jawbone atrophy. To place a bridge, the surrounding teeth must be healthy enough to hold the restoration, with good density in the jawbone and gum tissue. Dr. Toms will examine your mouth at your consultation to help you decide the best type of bridge (cantilever, traditional, resin bonded, or Maryland bonded) and material (ceramic, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and metal).

For the placement of a dental bridge, you will already have a missing tooth. Dr. Toms will numb the area with a local anesthetic and begin the administration of a sedative if needed. Once your supporting teeth are prepped and filed down, Dr. Toms will take digital images and dental impressions so your bridge can be created. A temporary bridge will be placed in the interim while your custom bridge is crafted. As soon as your bridge is ready, it will be cemented into its position. Dr. Toms will adjust the position of your bridge so it is comfortable and stable.

You should have a noticeable improvement in the appearance and function of your teeth. You may schedule a follow-up appointment at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. to adjust the fit of your bridge if it feels uncomfortable after it is placed. Dr. Toms or an assistant on our team will teach you how to care for your bridge, including the ways to keep it clean and any foods to avoid. It's important to keep your bridge and mouth clean because decay can develop under the bridge. If you properly care for it, your bridge may stay in place for several years. You should continue to schedule appointments at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. to get an annual dental examination and bi-annual dental cleanings. During your exams, Dr. Toms can check the health and wear of your bridge to decide if it should be replaced or repaired.

Dental restorations like bridges are covered, at least in part, by dental insurance. One of our team members will work with your insurance company to calculate your coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. offers several forms of payment, including CareCredit® financing, that may be discussed during your consultation. He will also help you choose the best bridge type and material to suit your budget and needs.

Make an appointment with Dr. Toms to get more information about dental bridge restorations and the different options to fit your unique needs. Our established practice at Patrick B. Toms, D.M.D. is pleased to offer custom dental bridges that can improve the health and appearance of your smile. Contact our office in Gainesville, GA to book your consultation.