Can Dental Bridges Improve Your Smile?

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth by bridging the gap between remaining natural teeth or dental implants. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, known as pontics, anchored to adjacent teeth or dental implants for support. Bridges restore the appearance of a complete smile, improve chewing function, and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting out of alignment. Depending on the type and materials used, dental bridges can be an effective and durable solution for restoring dental aesthetics and functionality. Regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene are crucial for maintaining the longevity and health of dental bridges. 

The Dental Bridges Procedure 

Initial Examination and Preparation 

• Our dentist in Lake Forest, CA, will conduct a comprehensive oral examination, which may include X-rays, to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. This helps determine if you're a suitable candidate for a bridge. 

• If you are a candidate, the adjacent teeth (abutments) supporting the bridge are prepared. This involves reshaping these teeth to accommodate dental crowns anchoring the bridge. 

Impression Taking 

• After preparing the abutment teeth, impressions (molds) of your teeth and the gap are taken. These impressions create a custom bridge that fits perfectly in your mouth. 

Temporary Bridge Placement

• While your permanent bridge is being fabricated in a dental lab (which can take a few weeks), our dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums. 

Bridge Fitting and Adjustment 

• Once your permanent bridge is ready, our dentist will check its fit and make any necessary adjustments to ensure comfort and proper alignment with your bite. 

Permanent Bridge Placement 

• Once satisfied with the fit and appearance, the permanent bridge is cemented or bonded into place on the prepared abutment teeth or attached to dental implants if it's an implant-supported bridge. 

• The bridge is carefully checked to ensure you feel comfortable and don't interfere with your bite. 

Post-Procedure Care 

• Our dentist will provide instructions on caring for your new bridge, including proper oral hygiene techniques and dietary recommendations. 

• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the bridge and ensure its proper functioning. Contact us today to learn more.

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Bridges 

Traditional bridges are a reliable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) between dental crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth. The procedure involves preparing the abutment teeth, which are the neighboring teeth on either side of the gap, by reshaping them to fit crowns. These crowns anchor the pontic, which is then permanently cemented into place. Materials commonly used for crowns include porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic, or metal alloys, chosen based on durability, aesthetics, and functional requirements. Traditional bridges are suitable when the adjacent teeth are strong and healthy enough to support the bridge and when there is sufficient bone support in the jaw. 

Benefits: 

• Replace one or more adjacent missing teeth efficiently. 

• Restore chewing function and maintain bite alignment. 

• Enhance smile appearance by filling gaps. 

Cantilever Bridges 

Cantilever bridges are designed for situations where adjacent teeth are on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. Similar to traditional bridges, they involve placing a pontic supported by a single crown rather than crowns on both sides. This design is advantageous in areas of the mouth where there is less stress on the bridge and when only one adjacent tooth is available for support. However, ensuring the single supporting tooth is strong enough to withstand the forces exerted during chewing and speaking is crucial. 

Benefits: 

• Requires only one adjacent tooth for support, preserving the structure of the neighboring teeth. 

• Useful when adjacent teeth are present on only one side of the gap. 

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded or resin-bonded bridges are a conservative option primarily used for replacing missing front teeth. They consist of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent natural teeth using resin cement. Unlike traditional bridges, Maryland bridges do not require reshaping or crowning of the adjacent teeth, making them a more conservative option. However, they are less durable and suitable primarily for areas of the mouth with minimal bite pressure. 

Benefits: 

• Preserve most of the natural tooth structure of adjacent teeth as they do not require extensive preparation. 

• Improve appearance with a less invasive procedure compared to traditional bridges. 

Implant-Supported Bridges 

Implant-supported bridges offer a stable and durable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth without relying on adjacent natural teeth for support. This type of bridge is supported by dental implants surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a strong foundation. The number of implants required depends on the size and location of the gap being filled. Implant-supported bridges are highly stable, prevent bone loss in the jaw, and do not compromise adjacent teeth. They are suitable for replacing several adjacent missing teeth or when natural teeth adjacent to the gap are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge. 

Benefits: 

• Provide a stable and durable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth. 

• Help prevent bone loss in the jaw by stimulating bone growth around the implants. 

• Offer longevity and reliability, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. 

• Do not rely on adjacent teeth, avoiding potential damage to natural teeth. 

Benefits of Dental Bridges for Oral Health 

• Bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly, which can be compromised by missing teeth. 

• They enhance the appearance of your smile by filling in gaps and maintaining facial contours. 

• Bridges prevent neighboring teeth from shifting out of position, leading to bite problems and jaw issues. 

• Made from durable materials like porcelain, bridges are designed to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. 

• Once properly fitted, bridges feel and function like natural teeth, providing comfort in daily activities. 

• Unlike removable dentures, bridges are fixed in place, eliminating the need for daily removal and cleaning routines. 

• By filling gaps, bridges promote better oral hygiene practices and reduce the risk of gum disease and decay in adjacent teeth. 

Dental bridges are a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth, offering restored function and improved oral health. Visit Nicole E. Kuske, DDS, at 22992 El Toro Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630, or call (949) 855-0176 to learn more about dental bridges and start your journey to a healthier, happier smile!