Dental Bridges
Newport Beach, CA
 Gaps in your teeth created by missing teeth are filled using dental bridges. They consist of a false tooth, also known as a pontic, between two abutment teeth. The pontics are usually made up of gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of all these materials. Our team at Enamel General and Cosmetic Dentistry can guide you through the process by determining whether or not you need a dental bridge. We will also explain how it can possibly help you.
Why You May Need a Dental Bridge
You may need a dental bridge to bring back the lost function of your teeth. Dental bridges help to restore functions like proper chewing and equal distribution of force on the teeth when biting or chewing, restoration of normal speech and pronunciation, and to avoid the displacement of other teeth.
Types of Dental Bridge Procedures
There are four types of dental bridge procedures which include traditional, Maryland, cantilever, and implant-supported. The traditional dental bridge consists of a pontic held in place by two abutment teeth on each side. The Maryland dental bridge has a pontic supported by abutment teeth that have frameworks of metal or porcelain bonded on their backs. The cantilever dental bridge has only one abutment tooth to support the pontic. An implant-supported dental bridge first has an implant embedded in the jawbone and then a surgery is performed to place the dental bridge. The choice of dental bridge procedure depends on the needs of the patient and our expert recommendation.
How Is a Dental Bridge Procedure Performed?
The abutment teeth are prepared by paring and recontouring the teeth present on the sides of the missing tooth, and their dental crowns are made along with the pontic; this is done by taking an impression of the area needing a dental bridge. The dental bridge is then made in a dental lab. In the meantime, a temporary dental bridge is placed to avoid damage to the affected area. After the permanent dental bridge has been prepared, the temporary bridge is replaced by the permanent bridge.
Life Expectancy of a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is usually expected to last for a 10-15 year period. The life span of the bridge may be shortened due to accidental damage, which calls for an urgent visit to our office.
Signs Indicating a Replacement
A dental bridge needs replacement when you experience symptoms such as loosening of the bridge, receding gumline, pain and swelling around the tooth, and wear and tear of the bridge. An urgent replacement is needed in the case of accidental cracking of the bridge, such as after a blow to the face.
Taking Care of a Dental Bridge
Caring for a dental bridge does not involve any other steps except for practicing good oral hygiene. Making sure to floss and brush your teeth regularly and twice a day is the key.
Dental bridges have proved to be extremely useful to people with missing teeth. They help gain back the normal vital functions of the teeth. For more information, feel free to contact our office, Enamel General and Cosmetic Dentistry at 949-991-2499 to schedule an appointment. |
