Bridges

 

If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge offers a reliable, natural-looking solution to fill the gaps in your smile. At Howard H Carrico III DDS, we provide customized dental bridges to restore the appearance and function of your teeth, giving you back the confidence to eat, speak, and smile comfortably. Our practice is committed to helping you achieve a healthy, complete smile with high-quality, personalized bridgework.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of artificial teeth, called pontics, that are anchored in place by dental crowns on adjacent natural teeth, or abutments. If you’re missing several teeth in a row, a bridge can restore the full arch of your smile, preserving the alignment of remaining teeth and improving your bite. Bridges are a long-lasting solution that not only improve aesthetics but also restore function, helping you to chew and speak with ease.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Choosing a dental bridge to replace missing teeth offers a variety of benefits for your oral health and overall quality of life:

  • Improved Appearance: A bridge fills in the gaps left by missing teeth, enhancing the natural look of your smile and preventing facial sagging that can result from tooth loss.

  • Restored Function: Dental bridges allow you to chew and speak clearly by maintaining the proper spacing and alignment of your teeth.

  • Enhanced Oral Health: By filling in gaps, a bridge prevents neighboring teeth from shifting, which can lead to bite issues and further tooth loss.

  • Confidence and Comfort: A bridge can provide a sense of completeness, boosting your self-esteem and comfort in social settings.

For patients in Kailua looking to restore their smile, dental bridges at Howard H Carrico III DDS provide an effective, lasting solution. Contact our office at (808) 261-6581 to learn more.

Types of Dental Bridges We Offer

At Howard H Carrico III DDS, we offer a range of dental bridge options to meet the unique needs of each patient. After a thorough examination and consultation, Dr. Carrico will help you decide which type of bridge is best suited for your oral health and personal goals:

  1. Traditional Fixed Bridges
    Traditional bridges are the most common type and involve placing crowns on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap to anchor the bridge. This solution is durable, reliable, and ideal for patients with strong, healthy abutment teeth.

  2. Cantilever Bridges
    Cantilever bridges are supported by a single crown on just one side of the gap. This type of bridge is typically used when only one abutment tooth is available. Although less common, cantilever bridges are useful in specific situations and provide stability where a traditional bridge may not be feasible.

  3. Implant-Supported Bridges
    For patients seeking a long-term solution, implant-supported bridges are an excellent option. Instead of relying on natural teeth, these bridges are anchored by dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. This solution provides exceptional stability and durability, ideal for patients who may not have sufficient natural teeth to support a traditional bridge.

The Dental Bridge Process at Howard H Carrico III DDS

At Howard H Carrico III DDS, we take a personalized approach to every dental bridge procedure, ensuring you receive a bridge that fits comfortably and looks natural. Here’s what you can expect from your bridge treatment at our office:

  1. Initial Consultation and Exam
    During your consultation, Dr. Carrico will perform a comprehensive exam, taking X-rays and discussing your options for restoring missing teeth. We’ll help you select the best type of bridge for your specific needs and answer any questions you may have about the process.

  2. Preparation and Impressions
    To prepare for a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment teeth will be carefully reshaped to accommodate the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. Impressions are taken to ensure the bridge is custom-fitted for your mouth. If you’re choosing an implant-supported bridge, implants will first be placed in the jaw, requiring a healing period before the bridge is attached.

  3. Temporary Bridge Placement
    While your custom bridge is being crafted, we’ll place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums. This temporary bridge allows you to maintain function and comfort until your permanent bridge is ready.

  4. Final Placement and Adjustments
    Once your custom bridge is complete, Dr. Carrico will carefully place and adjust it for a secure, comfortable fit. We’ll ensure your bridge blends seamlessly with your natural teeth and functions as intended, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

To keep your dental bridge in excellent condition, follow these simple care guidelines:

  • Brush and floss daily, using a floss threader to clean underneath the bridge.

  • Avoid hard, sticky foods that could put stress on your bridge.

  • Visit our office regularly for checkups and cleanings to ensure your bridge and surrounding teeth stay healthy.

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation

If you’re missing teeth and looking to restore your smile, Howard H Carrico III DDS is here to help with expert, personalized dental bridge solutions. Our practice is dedicated to providing high-quality care and helping you regain a healthy, functional smile.

To schedule a consultation and learn more about our dental bridge services, call us at (808) 261-6581. Let Howard H Carrico III DDS help you achieve a complete and beautiful smile you can be proud of.