Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can make eating difficult, change the way you speak, and chip away at your confidence in social situations. Dental bridges in Novato offer a proven solution to fill those gaps and restore both function and aesthetics. At Tyler and Yun Family Dental, we focus on helping you feel comfortable and informed throughout the process. Our dentists listen to your concerns and explain each option clearly before moving forward with any treatment.
How Dental Bridges Work
A dental bridge does exactly what its name suggests: it bridges the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The restoration consists of replacement teeth (called pontics) anchored by crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap. These supporting teeth, known as abutments, hold the bridge securely in place.
Modern bridges are custom-made to match your natural teeth in both color and shape. This means your restoration blends seamlessly with your smile. Beyond aesthetics, bridges serve important functional purposes:
- They restore your ability to chew properly, so you can enjoy your favorite foods again.
- They help maintain the natural shape of your face.
- They prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
- They distribute bite forces evenly across your mouth.
The materials used are durable and designed to last for many years with proper care. Dr. Eric Tyler and Dr. John Yun work with skilled dental laboratories to ensure every bridge meets high standards for fit and appearance.
The Bridge Placement Process
Getting a bridge typically requires two visits to our Novato office. During your first appointment, we examine your teeth and take detailed images to create a precise treatment plan. The teeth on either side of the gap are carefully prepared to accommodate the crowns that will support your bridge. We then take impressions that serve as a blueprint for your custom restoration.
You’ll leave with a temporary bridge to protect your prepared teeth and maintain your appearance while the permanent bridge is being crafted. This usually takes a few weeks. When your final bridge is ready, you’ll return for the second visit. We’ll remove the temporary bridge, check the fit of your new restoration, and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it permanently in place.
Most patients adapt quickly to their new bridge and experience minimal discomfort during the process.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
Dental bridges work best when certain conditions are met. Ideal candidates have:
- Healthy teeth or dental implants on both sides of the gap to support the bridge
- Good gum health with no active periodontal disease
- Sufficient bone structure to support the abutment teeth
- A commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene
If you have multiple missing teeth or compromised oral health, we’ll discuss whether a bridge is still viable or if another option from our restorative dentistry services might serve you better. Every mouth is different, and what works for one patient may not be ideal for another.
Considering Other Options
Bridges aren’t your only choice for replacing missing teeth. Depending on your situation, you might also consider:
Dental Implants: These replace both the root and crown of a missing tooth, offering a more permanent solution that doesn’t require altering adjacent teeth. They’re typically more expensive and require a longer treatment timeline.
Partial Dentures: A removable option that rests on your gums and clips onto remaining teeth. Less expensive than bridges or implants, but also less stable, and may feel less natural.
Doing Nothing: While it might seem easier to leave a gap alone, missing teeth can lead to serious problems over time. Neighboring teeth tend to shift into the empty space, which can affect your bite, cause jaw pain, and make future dental work more complicated.
During your virtual consultation or in-person visit, we’ll help you weigh the advantages and drawbacks of each approach based on your specific needs and budget.
Why Patients Choose Dental Bridges in Novato
When you visit Tyler and Yun Family Dental, you’ll find a team that prioritizes clear communication over sales pitches. We take time to show you exactly what’s happening with your teeth, often using visual aids to help you understand your options.
Our office maintains current equipment, and our team stays updated on the latest techniques in restorative dentistry. But more importantly, we focus on making sure you feel heard and respected during every appointment.
Patients choose bridges for several practical reasons. They provide a fixed, non-removable solution that functions much like natural teeth. They’re typically more affordable than implants while still offering durability and natural appearance. And they can often be completed in just a few weeks, making them a relatively quick solution for tooth replacement.
Your Next Appointment
If you’ve been living with a gap in your smile and want to explore your options, contact us to schedule an examination. We’ll assess your oral health, discuss what dental bridges in Novato can do for you, and answer any questions you have about the process. There’s no obligation and no pressure. Just straightforward information to help you make the right choice for your smile.
