A complete smile does more than boost your confidence—it supports your oral health, helps you chew comfortably, and keeps your teeth in proper alignment. When one or more teeth are missing, it can create not only cosmetic concerns but also functional issues. At BENE Dental in Norwell, MA, we offer high-quality dental bridges designed to restore your smile’s appearance and strength while preventing future complications.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a custom-made restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally “bridges” the gap by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) to the natural teeth or dental implants on either side. Bridges are a time-tested solution in restorative dentistry, offering both durability and aesthetics.
Bridges can:
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Restore the ability to chew and speak naturally.
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Prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
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Maintain the natural shape of your face and jawline.
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Improve the overall appearance of your smile.
Types of Dental Bridges
At BENE Dental, we tailor treatment to your specific needs and goals. The most common types of dental bridges include:
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Traditional Bridges – These are the most widely used. They involve placing crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, with a replacement tooth (pontic) secured between them.
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Cantilever Bridges – Used when only one natural tooth is available for support, these are less common but still effective in certain cases.
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Maryland Bridges – A more conservative option, these use metal or porcelain wings bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth instead of full crowns.
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Implant-Supported Bridges – Anchored to dental implants rather than natural teeth, these provide exceptional strength and longevity.
Your dentist at BENE Dental will recommend the best option depending on your oral health, the location of the missing tooth, and your long-term goals.
The Dental Bridge Procedure at BENE Dental
Getting a bridge typically takes two or more visits to our office. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Consultation & Treatment Planning
We start with a detailed examination and discuss your tooth replacement options. Bridges are ideal for patients who want a fixed, natural-looking solution without removable dentures.
2. Tooth Preparation
For traditional bridges, the teeth adjacent to the gap are reshaped to support crowns. This creates a stable foundation for the bridge.
3. Impressions & Custom Design
We take precise impressions or digital scans of your teeth. These are sent to our dental lab, where your custom bridge is carefully crafted to match your bite and the color of your natural teeth.
4. Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your prepared teeth and gums while the permanent one is being made.
5. Bridge Placement
At your next visit, we remove the temporary bridge and bond the permanent one in place. We make final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and natural appearance.
6. Final Results
Your new bridge will look and feel like your natural teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, bridges can last 10–15 years or more. To maximize their lifespan, we recommend:
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Brushing Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around the bridge and supporting teeth.
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Flossing Daily: Special floss threaders or interdental brushes help clean under the bridge where food particles can get trapped.
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Regular Dental Visits: Routine checkups at BENE Dental ensure your bridge and supporting teeth remain healthy.
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Avoiding Excessive Pressure: Chewing hard foods, ice, or using teeth as tools can damage your bridge.
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Protecting Against Grinding: If you clench or grind at night, a custom nightguard can prevent damage.
Why Choose BENE Dental for Bridges?
At BENE Dental in Norwell, MA, we combine advanced restorative techniques with personalized care. Our team focuses on both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring your bridge restores your bite while blending naturally with your smile. We understand that replacing missing teeth is an important investment in your health, and we’re committed to making the process comfortable and rewarding.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you don’t have to live with the gaps. A custom dental bridge from BENE Dentalcan restore your confidence, improve your oral health, and give you back the full function of your smile.
Schedule a consultation today and let us help you bridge the gap to a healthier, more confident you.