Get Help with a Dental Bridge in San Diego

For anyone who has a missing tooth or teeth due to injury or extraction, the gap that now exists between your healthy teeth can eventually lead to problems. The teeth on either side of the open area can gradually shift out of position and may hinder chewing or can begin to cause pain and discomfort along the empty gum line. Left ignored, the symptoms will usually worsen until the person considers the advantages of getting a dental bridge in San Diego.

At Bernardo Center Dentistry, Dr. Raymond Carpenter is a well-respected prosthodontist with more than four decades of experience. He currently is an active member of several dental-related organizations and is also a member and past president of the San Diego Prosthodontic Society and is a Crown Council dentist. Dr. Carpenter’s goal is to make each one of his patients feel comfortable and confident about the treatment he recommends that will improve their oral health and appearance.

How do I know if I need a dental bridge in San Diego?

If you have a gap in your mouth that is the result of one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge can be the recommended treatment to alleviate a number of symptoms. This dental appliance does exactly what its name implies: it bridges the gap between teeth to considerably improve your overall oral health.

What symptoms can a dental bridge correct?

The most visible condition a dental bridge can improve is your smile. Once you fill in any gaps along your gum lines, you will feel more confident about showing off your teeth. A dental bridge can also help maintain the shape of your face. From a pure mouth-function standpoint, a dental bridge will restore proper distribution of your bite force, giving you back the ability to properly chew food and speak more clearly. In addition, the fitting of a dental bridge will prevent your surrounding teeth from shifting out of their natural position.

Am I a good candidate for a dental bridge?

Only with a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and gums can Dr. Carpenter determine the proper course of treatment for any oral health issues you may be experiencing. Once he discusses his findings with you and makes a recommendation that you should consider having a dental bridge, the next step, is to schedule an appointment for the first of two visits to complete the procedure.

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Why two visits?

During your first treatment appointment, preparations are made for the abutment teeth. These are made up of crowns that will fit over the teeth on either side of the gap. They are put in place to anchor the bridge. Impressions of the treatment area are made from which the actual crowns and bridge will be modeled and fitted. Dr. Carpenter will insert a temporary bridge to wear until your permanent bridge is inserted during your second appointment. Once in place, additional visits are sometimes necessary to ensure a proper fit.

If you have gaps between teeth and would like to learn more about the benefits of having a dental bridge, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Raymond Carpenter by reaching out online, or by calling Bernardo Center Dentistry at (858) 487-2301.