Why patients in Seminole, FL, choose dental bridges to replace missing teeth
Oral health is a journey. And at Boulevard Dental, we work closely with patients in Seminole and Greater Pinellas County, FL, to keep their mouths healthy and looking great. But should we be unable to preserve a natural tooth with root canal therapy or other endodontic treatments, Drs Wujick, Clark, and Castillo have many options to replace missing teeth promptly. Dental bridges are one of the most time-tested restorative methods available to dentists, and they present a durable, natural, and cost-effective alternative to implant-supported crowns and bridges. Some individuals are not appropriate candidates for implants. Others may not want to undergo the process of implant placement or associated procedures (such as bone grafting) to “ready” the jaw to support the implant.
Now, to be a candidate for dental bridges, patients must have at least some remaining healthy teeth. The presence of existing healthy teeth is a “must” because the bridge is supported by neighboring teeth, unlike crowns or bridges supported by implants placed in the jawbone. To “prepare” the neighboring teeth, these “abutments,” as they’re called, are crowned. Crowns necessitate the removal of some natural tooth structure. That way, the crown fits over the reduced tooth properly. The crowns are then fused to the pontic or replacement tooth. Then, the pontic and crowns are cemented to the abutment teeth. Once securely bonded in place, the crowns cover the abutments and “bridge” or fill in the gap between the abutment teeth with the fused pontic or replacement tooth. There are variations in the design of bridges, depending partly on the number of teeth that need to be replaced and the number (and location) of existing teeth.
Bridges
A bridge is a non-surgical way to replace one or many teeth. A bridge uses the adjacent teeth as anchors to support the missing tooth or teeth. With today’s dental advancements, a bridge can be fabricated in a fairly short period of time, using a metal or nonmetal foundation. Don’t let that missing tooth affect the way you speak, eat, and smile. Bridges yield immediate results that last a lifetime. Ask your dentist what type of bridge may be right for you.
Bridges are made from dental materials designed to mimic the natural appearance, feeling, and function of healthy teeth. So, they are appropriate even for those patients who are missing highly noticeable front teeth in the “smile zone.” Additionally, dental bridges support the strength of supporting bone and the health of neighboring teeth. Missing teeth tend to hasten bone loss in the jaw, which negatively affects everything from chewing and speech to the appearance of the face. Teeth also tend to shift toward the gap. Other teeth tend to bear uneven stress when their neighbors are missing, making them vulnerable to breakage and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a form of dental restoration intended to replace one or more lost teeth. It is referred to as a dental bridge because it covers the space created by the lost teeth. The bridge consists of replacement teeth, called pontics, which are then anchored in position by adjacent healthy teeth or with the use of dental implants.
How does a dental bridge stay in place?
Healthy teeth typically support dental bridges on both sides of the gap; these are called abutment teeth. These teeth are crowned to hold the bridge in place securely. Alternatively, for patients without suitable adjacent teeth, dental implants can be used as a strong foundation for the bridge.
Is the procedure painful?
Our team prioritizes patient comfort and use advanced modalities and techniques to ensure the procedure is as smooth as possible. Most people experience minimal discomfort, and the team will provide anesthesia and other measures to ensure you feel at ease throughout the process.
How long will my new dental bridge last?
With proper home care and regular examinations, a dental bridge can last between 5 and 15 years, or even longer. The key is maintaining excellent oral hygiene, sticking to regular dental checkups, and following any advice provided by our team.
What materials are dental bridges made from?
Dental bridges are often made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, and metal alloys. Our team works with you to choose the material that best suits your needs, budget, and aesthetics.
Can I both eat and speak normally with a dental bridge?
Yes! A dental bridge restores both the function and appearance of your teeth. After a short adjustment period, you will be able to enjoy your favorite foods and speak without difficulty. The design of the bridge ensures it feels natural and comfortable in your mouth.
How do I take care of my dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge is straightforward. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss under the bridge to remove food particles, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your oral health in top shape. Regular visits to our practice help keep your bridge in great condition.
Is a dental bridge right for everyone?
While a dental bridge is considered an excellent solution for many people, it might not be the best choice for everyone. We carefully evaluate your oral health, the condition of your remaining teeth in the smile, and your unique needs to determine if a bridge or another treatment is the right option for you.
Will a dental bridge look natural?
Absolutely! Modern dental bridges are crafted using advanced materials and techniques to mimic the appearance of natural teeth closely. Our team focuses on creating bridges that match the color, shape, and size of your existing natural teeth, ensuring a flawless final look.
What are the benefits of getting a dental bridge?
A dental bridge offers numerous benefits, including restoring your smile, improving chewing function, preventing surrounding teeth from shifting, and maintaining the natural shape of your face. It is an effective and reliable solution for enhancing both oral health and appearance.
There are numerous health, cosmetic, and functional reasons to replace teeth now rather than later. Do not delay scheduling your consultation at our office in Seminole at (727) 308-6224.
