Bridges In Lake Forest, CA

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth that literally “bridge” the gap where the natural teeth used to be. A bridge comprises two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and one or more false teeth in between. The false tooth, known as a pontic, is fused between the two crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth.

At Nicole E. Kuske, DDS, the best dentist in Lake Forest, CA, dental bridges can be made from various materials, including gold alloys and porcelain fused to metal. However, many patients prefer all-ceramic dental bridges due to the more natural appearance they provide. All-ceramic dental bridges are also easier to clean and more resistant to staining than other dental bridges.

Types of Dental Bridges

Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth held in place by dental crowns placed on the adjacent natural teeth. The crowns are placed over the prepared teeth on either side of the gap, and the pontics fill the space in between.

Cantilever Bridge

This type of bridge is used when there is only one healthy natural tooth adjacent to the gap. The pontic is supported by a dental crown bonded to the adjacent tooth. Cantilever bridges are less common and may not be recommended in certain situations.

Maryland Dental Bridge

Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, a Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth for support. The pontic is then attached to the framework, filling the gap. Maryland bridges are typically used when the adjacent teeth are healthy and have minimal or no damage.

The Advantages of Dental Bridges

Restore Function

Dental bridges restore your ability to chew and speak properly. Eating certain foods and pronouncing certain words can be difficult when you have missing teeth. By filling the gap with a dental bridge, you regain the functionality of your teeth, allowing you to enjoy a varied diet and speak confidently.

Prevent Teeth From Shifting

When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth can shift or tilt into the space, leading to alignment issues and bite problems. Dental bridges fill the gap, maintaining the proper alignment of your teeth and preventing unwanted shifting or movement.

Maintain Facial Structure

Missing teeth can cause the facial muscles to sag, giving the face a sunken or aged appearance. By replacing the missing teeth with a dental bridge, the natural support for the cheeks and lips is restored, helping to maintain the natural contour of your face.

Dental bridges help distribute bite forces evenly across all the teeth, reducing the strain on individual teeth and promoting better oral health. For more information about dental bridges and which type may be right for you, contact Nicole E. Kuske, DDS, at 22992 El Toro Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630, or call (949) 855-0176.

Bridges In Lake Forest, CA