Dr Vander Vliet - Advanced Dental Care

office
@thehightechdentist.com

Call us:
908-852-8858

Dental Bridges

Restore Your Smile

If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge could be the ideal solution to restore your smile and confidence. At High Tech Dentist in Hackettstown, NJ, we offer expert care to help you understand if a dental bridge is the right option for you.
Missing Teeth?

Is a dental bridge right for me?

A dental bridge is a fixed dental appliance used to replace one or more missing teeth. It literally bridges the gap created by lost teeth, restoring both the appearance and function of your smile.
Typically, a dental bridge consists of two dental crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap (known as abutment teeth), with one or more false teeth (pontics) suspended between them. These components work together to create a seamless, natural-looking replacement.
Dental Bridges in Hackettstown, NJ
Fixed Prosthetics in Hackettstown, NJ
Fixed Solution

Replace Missing Teeth

If an embarrassing space from one or more lost teeth is diminishing your self-confidence, a dental bridge can be a wonderful option. It provides a complete false tooth that is securely attached to the two adjacent teeth, which are often crowned to provide robust support and protect them from potential damage.
At High Tech Dentist in Hackettstown, NJ, Doctor K. and our team specialize in providing comfortable and effective solutions like dental bridges to help you regain your confidence and oral health. We use high-quality materials, often non-metal, all-ceramic crowns, to ensure your bridge looks and feels completely natural.
Dental Bridge Candidate in Hackettstown, NJ

Who Needs a Dental Bridge?

You may be a candidate for a dental bridge if you are missing one or more teeth due to:
Restore Tooth

Injury

Missing teeth from an accident or trauma.

Smile

Decay

Tooth loss caused by severe cavities.

Apple

Gum Disease

Teeth lost due to advanced periodontal issues.
Smile

Restore Smile

Wanting to fill gaps and improve aesthetics.

Dental Health

Function

Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly.
Tooth

Prevent Shifting

Stopping remaining teeth from moving.

The Dental Bridge Process

Getting a dental bridge typically involves two visits to our Hackettstown office, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
Step 1
L
Step 1

First Visit

During your initial appointment, Doctor K. will prepare the abutment teeth (the natural teeth on either side of the gap). This involves removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the dental crowns that will support the bridge.

Impressions of your teeth are then taken. These impressions are crucial as they serve as the blueprint for creating your custom dental bridge.

The impressions are sent to a trusted dental laboratory where skilled technicians will craft your permanent dental bridge to perfectly fit your mouth and match the color of your natural teeth.

Step 2
L
Step 2

Temporary Bridge

After the abutment teeth are prepared, a temporary dental bridge is placed over them. This temporary bridge serves several important purposes.

It protects the prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being fabricated at the dental laboratory.

It helps maintain the space and position of your surrounding teeth.

It allows you to eat and speak relatively normally and provides a natural appearance during the waiting period.

The fabrication of your permanent dental bridge typically takes about two weeks.

Step 3
L
Step 3

Second Visit

Your second visit is when your permanent dental bridge will be placed.

First, the temporary dental bridge is carefully removed.

Doctor K. will then meticulously check the fit, bite, and appearance of your new permanent bridge to ensure it meets our high standards and your expectations.

Once everything is confirmed to be perfect, the permanent dental bridge is securely cemented into place using a strong dental adhesive or cement, providing a durable and stable restoration.

Step 4
L
Step 4

Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential to prolong the life of your dental bridge and maintain your overall oral health.

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.

Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from around the bridge and your natural teeth. You may need to use a floss threader or special interdental brush to clean effectively under the false tooth (pontic) of the bridge.

It is also crucial to visit High Tech Dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. These appointments allow us to monitor the health of your bridge, abutment teeth, and gums, ensuring any potential issues are caught early.

Dental Bridge Alternatives in Hackettstown, NJ
Other Options

Alternatives to Bridges

While dental bridges are an excellent solution for many patients missing one or more teeth, they are not the only option available. Doctor K. and the team at High Tech Dentist will discuss all suitable treatments with you to find the best fit for your specific needs and goals.

Other common and effective options for replacing missing teeth include dental implants and partial dentures.

**Dental Implants:** These are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. They provide a stable foundation for a crown or bridge and are a great option if you have sufficient bone density. If not, a bone graft may be necessary.
**Partial Dentures:** These are removable appliances consisting of false teeth attached to a metal or acrylic frame. They fit over your natural teeth and are held in place by clasps or other attachments, offering a less invasive option for tooth replacement.

Understanding Dental Bridge Costs

The cost of dental bridges can vary significantly. Several factors influence the final price, including the specific type of bridge recommended for your situation, the materials used (such as porcelain or metal alloys), and the overall complexity of the procedure required to prepare your teeth and place the bridge.

We understand that understanding the financial aspect of dental treatment is important. Our friendly front desk team in Hackettstown is always ready to assist you. They can help you navigate the details and provide an estimate of your potential out-of-pocket cost based on your individual treatment plan and dental insurance coverage.

Restoring Smile

Restoring Your Smile

The Value of a Bridge

A dental bridge is a valuable investment in your oral health and confidence. By replacing missing teeth, it restores your smile’s appearance, improves your ability to chew and speak properly, and helps maintain the alignment of your remaining natural teeth, preventing future problems.

Protecting Oral Health

Protecting Your Health

Long-Term Benefits

Beyond aesthetics, dental bridges protect your overall oral health. They prevent adjacent teeth from drifting into the gap, which can lead to bite problems, jaw pain, and increased risk of gum disease and decay. A bridge acts as a shield for your smile’s future stability.

Dental Consultation

Your Consultation

Getting Started

The first step is a consultation with Doctor K. in our Hackettstown office. We’ll assess your oral health, discuss your options (including bridges, implants, and dentures), and determine the best solution for your unique needs.

  • Comprehensive oral examination
  • Discussion of treatment options
  • Personalized treatment plan
  • Review of costs and insurance
  • Opportunity to ask questions
  • Experience our caring approach

Frequently Asked Questions

About Dental Bridges

Find answers to common questions about dental bridges and how they can help restore your smile and oral function.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Simple Steps for Long-Lasting Success

Once your dental bridge is placed, proper care is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain the health of your supporting teeth and gums. A consistent oral hygiene routine is key to protecting your investment and keeping your smile healthy for years to come.
Brushing Your Bridge

Brushing

Twice Daily
Brush your teeth and bridge at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the areas around the crowns supporting the bridge.
Flossing Your Bridge

Flossing

Daily Routine
Flossing is crucial to clean under the false tooth (pontic) of the bridge. Use a floss threader or specialized dental floss designed for bridges to effectively remove food particles and plaque.
Diet for Bridge Health

Healthy Diet

Protect Your Bridge
Avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or sticky candies that could potentially damage your bridge or the supporting teeth. A balanced diet supports overall oral health.
Dental Checkups for Bridges

Regular Visits

Professional Care
Schedule regular checkups and professional cleanings with our team in Hackettstown. We can monitor the health of your bridge and supporting teeth, perform thorough cleanings, and catch any potential issues early.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

If you’re missing teeth and considering a dental bridge, the best way to determine if it’s the right solution for you is to schedule a consultation with Doctor K. in our Hackettstown office.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

We’ll evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a complete and confident smile.

The High Tech Dentist

Technology for Your Convenience and Comfort

We utilize digital tools to simplify administrative tasks. We can electronically submit your insurance claims, significantly speeding up the process and reducing paperwork. If your insurance requires X-rays, these can be sent digitally along with your claim, eliminating delays.

Beyond efficiency, we're committed to your comfort. Our practice features ergonomically designed dental chairs for maximum relaxation during procedures. We also provide amenities like noise-canceling headphones and entertainment options to help you feel at ease throughout your visit. Our goal is to combine cutting-edge technology with a patient-centered approach, creating a positive and comfortable dental experience.

Learn More
About Dental Bridges

Educate yourself further on dental bridges and how they can be a solution for missing teeth. Explore these trusted external resources for additional information.

What is a Dental Bridge?

Get a clear overview of dental bridges, how they work, and what they are made of from a trusted dental resource like the American Dental Association.

Dental Abutments Guide

Get an overview of dental abutments, the essential connectors for dental bridges, partial dentures, and implants. Learn about types, materials, and installation.

Dental Bridges

Get an overview of dental bridges, fixed dental prostheses used to replace missing teeth, exploring their definitions, types, materials, and clinical stages.