Are missing teeth affecting your smile and confidence? At Fennell & Yoxthimer, we specialize in high-quality dental bridges to restore the beauty and function of your teeth. Serving Cincinnati, Norwood, and St. Bernard, our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you achieve a healthy, natural-looking smile. Here’s everything you need to know about dental bridges and how they can improve your oral health.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetics designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of artificial teeth, called pontics, held in place by crowns attached to the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap. Fennell & Yoxthimer offers various types of dental bridges to ensure you receive the most comfortable and effective solution for your unique needs.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges do more than just fill in missing teeth. They offer numerous benefits, including:
- Restoring Your Smile: Missing teeth can make people feel self-conscious. Dental bridges provide a natural-looking solution to restore your confidence.
- Improving Chewing and Speaking Abilities: Gaps in your teeth can make it difficult to chew properly and may affect speech. Bridges restore these essential functions.
- Preventing Tooth Shifting: When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space, leading to alignment issues. Dental bridges help maintain proper alignment and prevent further dental problems.
- Supporting Facial Structure: Missing teeth can cause changes in facial shape over time. Dental bridges help maintain the natural structure of your face, preventing a sunken appearance.
Types of Dental Bridges Offered at Fennell & Yoxthimer
Fennell & Yoxthimer provides several types of dental bridges to suit different needs:
- Traditional Bridges: The most common type, supported by crowns on the natural teeth on each side of the gap.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when there is only one supporting tooth available, ideal for certain locations in the mouth.
- Maryland Bridges: Supported by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. Often used for missing front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth, providing a durable and long-lasting solution.
The Dental Bridge Process
At Fennell & Yoxthimer, we make the dental bridge process comfortable and straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, we’ll discuss your oral health needs and examine the gap left by missing teeth to determine the best type of bridge.
- Tooth Preparation and Impressions: For traditional bridges, we prepare the teeth on either side of the gap and take impressions to create a custom-fit bridge. For implant-supported bridges, implants are surgically placed first, requiring a healing period.
- Fitting and Adjustment: Once your bridge is ready, we ensure a comfortable fit, making any necessary adjustments to provide a natural feel and appearance.
- Placement and Aftercare: After the bridge is securely in place, we’ll provide aftercare instructions to help you maintain your new smile.
Why Choose Fennell & Yoxthimer in Cincinnati for Your Dental Bridge?
Our practice, located in Cincinnati, OH, combines years of experience with a compassionate approach to ensure every patient feels comfortable and informed. Our team prioritizes preventive care and patient education, helping you make the best decisions for your oral health. We’re committed to excellence and take pride in our tailored approach to each individual’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, a dental bridge can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more. Regular check-ups at Fennell & Yoxthimer can help extend the life of your bridge.
How should I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for your bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular dental visits are essential. Our team can recommend tools to clean around your bridge effectively.
Are dental bridges covered by insurance?
Coverage for dental bridges varies by insurance plan. We’ll help you navigate your insurance benefits and payment options to make your treatment as affordable as possible.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you’re considering a dental bridge to restore your smile, Fennell & Yoxthimer is here to help. Located conveniently in Cincinnati and serving Norwood, St. Bernard, and surrounding areas, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a complete, confident smile!
