Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are natural-looking dental appliances that replace a single missing tooth or a section of missing teeth allowing a person to restore his or her ability to chew and speak properly, smile confidently, improve bite, and maintain facial structure, gum health and bone density in the jaw. Because they are custom-made, bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth as well as the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
The three most common types of dental bridges are resin-bonded bridges, cantilever bridges, and traditional bridges. A traditional bridge is created by placing a false tooth, or pontic, between two anchor teeth, or abutment teeth. The abutment teeth, which can be either natural teeth or implants, are fitted with crowns and used to hold the pontic tooth in place. The pontic tooth can be made from any combination of gold, alloys or porcelain, or in some cases, pure porcelain. Cantilever bridges are useful as they can be used when anchor teeth are only available on one side of the missing tooth. The process is otherwise similar to the traditional bridge. Resin-bonded bridges, also known as Maryland bonded bridges, are the most complex of the three. They are created directly in the mouth using plastic teeth and gums attached to a metal framework, which is then directly connected to existing teeth.
About the Process
There are typically two phases involved in the installation of dental bridges. The first phase is where the majority of the work is done. The abutment teeth will be prepared by removing some of the enamel to make room for the crowns. Next, impressions will be made and used to create the pontic tooth, bridge, and crowns for the abutment tooth or teeth. The exposed gums will be protected by a temporary bridge, to be removed in the next phase. The second stage involves removal of the temporary bridge and installation of the permanent bridge. The dentist may temporarily cement it into place at first in order to ensure optimal fit, eventually installing it more permanently a few weeks later, after any necessary adjustments have been made. There are typically several visits involved in this phase during which the dentist will make these adjustments.
Life after Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can change the patient’s life dramatically and for the better. Speaking and chewing should become much easier, giving back confidence the patient may have lost. Caring for the bridge is as simple as caring for regular teeth; regular brushing and flossing to prevent decay of enamel and gums, as well as regular cleanings so that any potential problems can be caught early. A healthy diet is also important, as well as avoiding activities – such as chewing on ice – that could potential damage teeth. If you have severely damaged teeth or missing teeth you could benefit from a bridge.
What are Dental Bridges?
At eagle dentistry, we use bridges to replace missing teeth that are in between two other teeth. Bridges are minimally invasive, done entirely in our dental office, do not require surgery, and will not come out of your mouth!
Dental bridges are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. It’s one of the most common dental procedures. They fill the space left by a missing tooth or teeth. At eagle dentistry Dental in Saratoga Springs, our dental bridges are made from high-quality porcelain designed to match the color of your natural teeth. We also use state-of-the-art technology to ensure that our dental bridges are strong and durable.
Advantages of Dental Bridges?
The type of dental bridges you receive will depend on many factors, including the location of the missing tooth or teeth, your bite, and the health of your gums.
There are many advantages to dental bridges, including the following:
- They help to restore your smile by filling in gaps caused by missing teeth
- They can help to prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of place
- They can help to restore your ability to chew and speak properly
- They can help to distribute the force evenly across your teeth when you bite
- They are long-lasting and durable
By getting a bridge installed instead of opting for a dental implant, you may be able to save yourself a large amount of time, cost, and even surgery. Since bridges require no surgery and are entirely an in-office procedure at Salvatore Dental, you can conveniently fill in a gap caused by a missing or displaced tooth in one quick visit.
Types of Dental Bridge Material
When it comes to dental bridges, there are various materials available to suit different patient needs and preferences. Porcelain and ceramic bridges offer exceptional aesthetics, mimicking the natural color and translucency of teeth. They are stain-resistant and provide a seamless blend with the surrounding teeth. Metal alloys, such as gold or silver, are known for their strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for patients who require extra support.
Composite resin bridges offer a more affordable option while still providing satisfactory aesthetics and functionality. Our dental office will guide you in selecting the most suitable material based on factors like durability, aesthetics, and cost, ensuring that your dental bridge not only restores your smile, but also meets your individual requirements.
How Dental Bridges Work
Bridges involve anchoring crowns to existing teeth to secure gaps with a false tooth in between. This is different from a standalone dental implant because there is no need to perform dramatic surgery in anchoring the false tooth into the gum and jaw. Often, bridges are a preferred solution for our Malta dentistry patients because they:
- Require no surgery
- Utilize a healthy tooth or existing implants to secure a false tooth
- Are far safer and require little-to-no recovery period
- Pose a much more cost-efficient replacement option for patients with or without insurance
- Protect gums and surrounding teeth just as a normal tooth would
- Appear to look like an ordinary tooth or implant
- Require little-to-no additional maintenance over time
- Dental bridges at Salvatore Dental in Saratoga Springs
It’s no secret that dental bridges can be an important part of maintaining your dental health. After all, they can help to close gaps in your teeth, improve your bite, and even make it easier to brush and floss. However, finding the right dental bridge can be a challenge.
That’s why eagle dentistry in Saratoga Springs is proud to offer a wide selection of dental bridges. Whether you’re looking for a traditional bridge or something more modern, we’re sure to have the perfect option for you. And because we use the latest dental technology, you can rest assured that your bridge will be both comfortable and durable.
Caring For Dental Bridges
Proper care for your dental bridges is essential to maintain their longevity and keep your smile healthy and functional. Adopting good oral hygiene practices is key.
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, paying special attention to the areas around the bridge.
- Floss daily using floss threaders or interdental brushes to remove plaque and food particles.
- Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial for monitoring the condition of your dental bridges and ensuring optimal oral health.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods or using your teeth as tools to prevent damaging the bridge.
- If you participate in contact sports, consider wearing a mouthguard for added protection.
By following these care guidelines and maintaining regular dental visits, you can enjoy a beautiful and long-lasting dental bridge that enhances both your smile and overall oral health.
