Dental Bridges In Natomas

What Are Dental Bridges?

Who Needs Dental Bridges? 

If you’ve lost one or more natural teeth, a dental bridge could be an excellent solution. A bridge restores your smile and improves your ability to chew and speak. However, as the number of missing teeth increases, dental bridges may become less practical.

Teeth function in harmony with one another. When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth may shift into the empty space. In addition, teeth in the opposite jaw may move up or down toward the gap. This shifting can lead to various issues, including:

• Bite irregularities
• Chewing difficulties
• Pain due to increased stress on your teeth and jaw
• Self-consciousness about your appearance

Therefore, consulting with your dentist is essential. They will help determine the best course of action for you, ensuring that you select the most effective solution to restore your oral health.

Types Of Dental Bridges 

Dental bridges come in several types to suit different needs. The four main types include:

1. Traditional Dental Bridges: The most common type, involving a false tooth (pontic) held in place by two dental crowns. These crowns are placed over the adjacent natural teeth (abutment teeth). Traditional bridges are ideal when you have healthy teeth on either side of the gap.
2. Cantilever Bridges: These bridges only require a single crown for support, making them suitable when only one natural tooth is next to the missing tooth gap.
3. Maryland Bonded Bridges: These use a metal or porcelain framework with wings that bond to the back of the adjacent teeth. This option is less invasive, as it doesn’t require crowns or tooth reduction.
4. Implant-Supported Bridges: These are anchored by dental implants, offering superior stability and longevity. Ideal for patients missing multiple teeth in a row or those with weakened jawbones, implant-supported bridges help preserve bone structure.

Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge procedure typically takes at least two appointments:

1. Abutment Teeth Preparation: In the first appointment, your dentist reshapes the abutment teeth by removing some enamel and dentin to create space for the crown.
2. Dental Impressions: Next, your dentist takes impressions (or digital scans) of your teeth. These will be sent to the lab to create your custom bridge. While waiting for the permanent bridge, you’ll receive a temporary one to protect exposed areas.
3. Permanent Bridge Fitting: In the second appointment, your dentist removes the temporary bridge and places the permanent one. The fit is carefully adjusted to ensure comfort.