Rochester area dentist discusses the process of a tooth bridge

Missing teeth leave more than just a gap in your smile. They can have a major impact on the way you talk, eat, and look. The good news is that you don’t have to live with spaces between your teeth forever. Dental bridges can be an effective and affordable option for patients who want to restore their smiles after losing one or more teeth. With the help of the team at Dr. John Aurelia’s practice in Rochester Hills, patients are on their way back to smiling in no time with a tooth bridge.

Gaps between teeth that are left untreated can cause remaining teeth to shift out of place. This can impact bone structure in the mouth, making plaque removal more difficult and increasing your risk for decay. Bridges help patients regain the functionality and aesthetics of a natural smile that have been impacted by tooth loss. After placement of a bridge, patients can chew and speak with ease. Replacing missing teeth is important for the overall health of the mouth.

Dental bridges are artificial restorations that are held securely in place by the natural teeth on both sides of the missing teeth. A dental bridge is composed of an artificial tooth with dental crowns on top of the adjacent teeth.

When patients come to our office with missing teeth, we discuss the options for replacement. For our patients who would benefit from a bridge, we prepare the mouth for placement of the prosthetic. This includes shaping the teeth that are to receive dental crowns. Impressions are taken to design and create the bridge. A temporary bridge can be worn while waiting for the final restoration.

When patients come back for the second visit, the temporary bridge is removed and the final bridge is checked for fit and comfort. After that, it is cemented into place. Patients are sent home with instructions to care for their bridge in much the same way they do natural teeth – brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily (Dr. Aurelia provides instruction on how to floss under and around the bridge), and maintaining regular dental visits.

To learn more about the advantages of a tooth bridge, call our Rochester Hills office today at (248) 243-6044.

Dr. John Aurelia
Connect with John L. Aurelia on Linkedin.

Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.