Dental Bridges New Bern, NC

Missing teeth can negatively affect the appearance of your smile and can often times cause difficulty eating or speaking. North Carolina cosmetic dentist Dr. Stephen Hoard offers a variety of replacement options for missing teeth, including affordable dental bridges, in his New Bern dentist office. Dental bridges are a restorative dentistry treatment offering Dr. Stephen Hoard offers to New Bern, NC.

Dental Bridges in New Bern, NC

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth, and “bridge” the gap in a patient’s smile. Using the latest materials, Dr. Hoard creates artificial teeth that are virtually indistinguishable from you natural teeth.

A dental bridge is a series of artificial teeth. It can be either fixed or removable. A removable bridge is best when used as a temporary restoration. A fixed dental bridge can be supported in three ways: by natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of the two.

When the natural teeth are used to support the bridgework, a dental crown is typically placed to provide additional support and stability.

The benefits of using dental implants are that they are longer lasting and more stable and do not require the dentist to remove any of the natural tooth structure, as is the case with dental crowns.

Dental Bridge FAQs

Learn more about dental bridges in New Bern, NC, with answers to these patient questions:

How much does a dental bridge cost?

The cost of a dental bridge will depend on the number and location of the missing teeth and the type of bridge and materials chosen. Dr. Hoard accepts all dental insurance in his New Bern, NC, dentist office; our staff will handle all necessary billing and paperwork. Additionally, we offer financing options for patients who are concerned about cost.

Can you repair broken bridgework?

Although dentists built dental bridges to last a long time, problems sometimes arise. If you have a dental bridge that is broken, chipped, or loose, contact our office to see if Dr. Hoard can repair your existing restoration. If repairing the bridge is not an option, Dr. Hoard can let you know your other options.

How do I take care of my dental bridge?

You should brush and floss a dental bridge just like natural teeth. Dr. Hoard will show you a special technique to floss under and around the artificial tooth or teeth. You should continue to visit the dentist at least twice yearly for routine examinations.

Are you awake for the dental bridge procedure?

Yes, you will be awake during the dental bridge procedure. This is because the procedure is minimally invasive and relatively painless. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area and reduce any discomfort during the process. The dentist will also provide sedation options to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure.

Do bridges feel like real teeth?

Yes. Once you adjust to the dental bridge, they can feel like your natural teeth. Dentists and prosthodontists design dental bridges to fit comfortably in your mouth and function like real teeth when eating and speaking. It might take a little time to adjust to the feeling of the bridge, but most patients soon forget it’s even there. While they might not be your original teeth, they’re the next best thing.

Is there an alternative to dental bridges?

If you have a single missing tooth, we may recommend a dental implant instead of a bridge. Dental implants are titanium posts that can replace your missing tooth at the root. We will also recommend implants to support a bridge that replaces a row of missing teeth. Multiple implants can support your new bridge without the need to prepare natural healthy teeth for support.

Is a bridge cheaper than an implant?

A traditional dental bridge costs less than a dental implant or implant-supported bridge. Still, a traditional bridge will not last as long as implants. Bridges often need replacement after 10 years. We also may need to rebase a traditional bridge over time.

Can you get a dental bridge in one day?

In most cases, getting a dental bridge is a process that takes at least two dental visits. During the first visit, your dentist prepares the abutment teeth and takes impressions to create the bridge. A dental lab typically creates the dental bridge, and the production process usually lasts 2 to 3 weeks. You will have another visit once your dentist gets the dental bridge from the lab.

During the second visit, your dentist will fit and adjust the dental bridge. However, some dental offices may offer same-day bridges using advanced technology (CEREC). However, this isn’t the norm.