Greensboro dentist explains how bridges can help fill the gap between missing teeth

A missing tooth leaves more than a gap between existing teeth. It leaves a gap in your smile that could change the way you speak, talk, and even smile. However, residents of Greensboro, NC, don’t need to live with a space in their smile where a tooth used to be. With the help of Dr. Steven Hatcher and the team at Triad Dentistry, the missing tooth can be reconstructed or replaced through crowns, bridges, or dental implants.

Bridges are a popular choice for replacing a missing tooth. Bridges can give you back the smile you used to love, allow you to speak and chew naturally, and keep the remaining teeth securely in place. A dental bridge is supported by natural teeth or implants that are on both sides of the missing tooth. The bridge is created from two crowns on the existing teeth that surround the gap and a false tooth in between.

If you have a missing tooth, visit Triad Dentistry to discuss your options with us. During your first visit, Dr. Hatcher will prepare the supporting by removing a small portion of the enamel. This is necessary to allow space for the crowns which will be placed. Next, he will take impressions from which the false tooth, the bridge, and the crowns will be created. While you wait for the bridge to be created, you will wear a temporary bridge to protect your teeth.

During the second visit, Dr. Hatcher will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent piece. He will ensure that it fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments. When both you and Dr. Hatcher are sure that it fits properly, he will cement it into place.

Care of the dental bridge is the same as care for the natural teeth. You will need to brush and floss daily, to be sure that the surrounding teeth stay strong and healthy. Additionally, maintaining a regular schedule of visits with your dentist will help to ensure at-home care is effective.

The Triad Dentistry team cares about the health of your smile and will help you determine the best treatment plan to give you the results you want! Call today to schedule a consultation.

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Triad Dentistry

Dr. Steven Hatcher

A graduate from the University of North Carolina, Dr. Hatcher majored in biology and completed his undergraduate studies there. At UNC, he was awarded a cancer research grant from the National Institutes of Health after which he graduated from dental school.

Dr. Hatcher is a passionate and driven professional who strives to preserve and enhance natural beauty in every dental treatment. He is keen on developing an individualist approach when it comes to treating his patients to ensure patient care is a tailor-made experience for the comfort of each client.