Lumin8 Dentistry provides dental bridges in Lakewood, WA. Call (253) 581-6140 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
There’s a particular moment when someone realizes they’re hiding their smile: turning away during photos, covering their mouth when they laugh, or avoiding social situations altogether. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we’ve witnessed countless transformations when people rediscover the freedom of a complete, confident smile through dental bridges. Whether you lost a tooth in an unexpected emergency or you’ve been dealing with gaps for years, dental bridges offer a permanent solution that looks natural and feels like your own teeth. Dr. Jun Carrington and our compassionate team serve everyone from military families at JBLM to long-time Lakewood residents, restoring not just teeth but confidence and quality of life.What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a restorative dental apparatus that literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge is made of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) and a false tooth or teeth in between (called pontics). These artificial teeth can be made from alloys, gold, porcelain, or a blend of these materials. However, porcelain is most commonly used because it can be color-matched to your current teeth for a seamless appearance. Dental bridges are permanently cemented in place, making them a fixed part of your smile. Unlike removable dentures, you won’t need to take them out for cleaning or worry about them slipping while you eat or speak.Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
Not all bridges are created equal, and the right type for you depends on the location of your missing teeth, the health of your surrounding teeth, and your specific needs. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we offer several types of dental bridges to accommodate different situations:Traditional Bridges
Traditional Bridges are the most widespread type and involve creating crowns for the teeth on the neighboring side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are an excellent option when you have existing teeth on both sides of the gap.Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever Bridges are used when there are viable teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. While less common than traditional bridges, cantilever bridges can be an ideal remedy in certain circumstances.Maryland Bridges
Maryland Bonded Bridges are also called resin-bonded bridges or Maryland bridges. These use a metal or porcelain framework that’s fused to the backs of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge is more conservative because it requires less preparation of the adjacent teeth, though it may not be as strong as a traditional bridge.Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-Supported Bridges use dental implants instead of crowns or metal frameworks. Generally, one implant is surgically placed for each missing tooth, and these implants secure the bridge in place. If one implant per tooth isn’t possible, the bridge may have a pontic between two implant-supported crowns.The Benefits of Dental Bridges
What to Expect During the Dental Bridge Procedure
Dental bridges often require two visits to our Lakewood office. During your first appointment, Dr. Carrington will prepare the abutment teeth by recontouring them to make room for the crowns that will be placed over them. This involves sanding a portion of the enamel to ensure the bridge will fit properly. After the teeth are prepared, we’ll take impressions or digital scans of your teeth using our advanced intraoral scanner. These impressions act as a model for the dental laboratory to custom-make the bridge, pontic, and crowns. To cover your prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being fabricated, we’ll provide you with a temporary bridge. During your second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed, and the new permanent bridge will be tested and adjusted for a perfect fit. Multiple check-ins may be necessary to assess the fit of the metal framework and bite. Once we’re confident that everything looks and feels right, the bridge will be cemented into place, completing your restoration.Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, often a decade or more. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits is critical to the longevity of your bridge and the health of your supporting teeth. You’ll need to brush twice daily and floss daily, paying close attention to the area around the bridge and under the pontic. Using a floss threader or special bridge floss can help you clean beneath the false tooth, where food particles and plaque can accumulate. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are also key, as they allow us to monitor the condition of your bridge and address any issues before they become serious problems. It’s also wise to avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or other objects that could damage your bridge. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a nightguard to protect both your bridge and your real teeth from excessive wear.Restore Your Complete Smile Today at Lumin8 Dentistry
Living with missing teeth doesn’t have to be your reality. Dental bridges offer a proven, reliable way to restore your smile and reclaim your confidence. We proudly serve patients throughout Lakewood, Pierce County, and the surrounding communities, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy life and financing options through Cherry to make quality dental care accessible. If you’re ready to explore your options for replacing missing teeth, contact Lumin8 Dentistry today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Carrington and our team. Learn more about Dr. Jun Carrington and discover how our devotion to excellence and patient-centered care can help you get the radiant, functional smile you deserve.Affiliations & Education
