Jennings, MO

Dental Bridges in Jennings, MO

Dental bridges in Jennings, MO. When your smile is in need of improvement, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a form of cosmetic dentistry where a crown, anchored by teeth on either side of the gap, is placed over the gap. They help you regain function and appearance if you’ve suffered the loss of a tooth. Dental bridges must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile and jaw health back to their original form. Consider an appointment with Plaza Dental Center to learn if dental bridges are an appropriate solution for your needs. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. Be proud of your smile again.

What Are Dental Bridges?

When you’ve either lost a tooth or have had a tooth removed, your other teeth will shift to fill in the gap. This can lead to further issues with your teeth and gums. A good way to fix this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your existing teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Jennings, MO dentist will place crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that fills in the gap. Dental bridges can be made from several different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a favorite among many because it can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making it appear like it’s one of your original teeth. Porcelain is also relatively sturdy and stain-resistant.
• Alloy — Metal dental bridges are known for their strength and durability. They are often used for molars or teeth near the back of your mouth as they need to be more durable for chewing.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is cemented to the abutment teeth to offer more support. It is not as durable as other materials but can be used for front teeth as they aren’t needed for chewing.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a newer substance used for dental bridges, and it’s durable and has a natural shade. It is often used for both front and back teeth.
• Gold — These dental bridges are resistant to wear and erosion. Gold dental bridges also have antibacterial properties.

Types of Dental Bridges in Jennings, MO

Even though dental bridges are a common solution to dental problems such as tooth loss, no one solution works for every patient. Your Jennings, MO dentist will recommend which type is best for you and your specific needs. There are four chief categories of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — Also called a conventional bridge, this involves creating a cap for the abutment teeth, with a pontic (a false tooth) in between. There are the most common, and are best when the patient still has teeth on either side of the gap.
• Cantilever dental bridges — These are similar to traditional bridges, but they only need one natural tooth or implant to support the pontic. In this case, you only need one natural tooth next to the gap.
• Maryland dental bridges — A Maryland bridge uses a metal or porcelain wings that are attached to the back of the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. This is commonly used when the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Instead of being supported by natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants, which are titanium screws that fuse with your jawbone after being surgically implanted. Implant-supported bridges are common when several teeth in a row are missing. These can lost longer than other types of bridges but requires healthy gums and adequate bone density to support the implants.

Which type of dental bridge you require will depend on the overall health of your mouth and where which specific tooth or teeth are missing. If you’d like to know which type of dental bridge you may be suitable for, request an appointment online to consult with an experienced Jennings, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in Jennings, MO

Getting a dental bridge usually involves several steps and may require multiple visits to your Jennings, MO dentist. The following are the typical steps involved in getting a dental bridge in Jennings, MO:

• First appointment with the dentist — Your dentist carry out an examination of your teeth and gums and ascertain if a dental bridge could be good for you. They’ll also walk you through the four types of dental bridges and which might be best for you.
• Preparation of the teeth for the bridge — If you are getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the two adjacent teeth will need to be prepped by removing part of the enamel and dentin. This allows for space for the crowns to comfortable fit over.
• Tooth impression — Your dentist will then make a model of your tooth. This model is sent to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth.
• Temporary bridge — Your Jennings, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help protect your teeth and gums until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — In your next appointment your unique bridge will be implanted by your dentist, and adjusted as needed. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure that the bridge fits nicely into your teeth and gums.
• Follow-up appointments and care — After your dental bridge is placed, you will need to return to your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure that there are no unforeseen issues.

At Plaza Dental Center in Jennings, MO, we understand that not everyone loves being in the dentists’ chair, especially for multiple procedures and appointments. That’s why Dr. Joseph Cutrona is especially interested in breaking down barriers and getting apprehensive Jennings, MO patients the great dental care they need. Whatever your comfort level at the dentist is, we can help.

How Dental Bridges Can Help You in Jennings, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Jennings, MO can do wonders for your mouth. Dental bridges offer a lot of benefits:

• Improved oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your teeth, gums, jawbone, and face. When there’s a gap in your teeth, the remaining teeth can move from their natural positions, causing dental problems that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Better appearance — Dental bridges offer a smile makeover that can restore your smile and help boost your confidence. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, so they blend seamlessly into your smile.
• It’s easier to bite and speak — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating issues you may have. When in there are gaps in your teeth, chewing can be challenging, which can lead to digestive problems. Dental bridges can restore natural ways of chewing and speaking, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and reducing problems you may have had with speech.
• Preventing further damage to the existing teeth — Dental bridges can help prevent further damage to your remaining teeth by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, your existing teeth have to bear more weight when you chew and speak. This can lead to broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your teeth and gums.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last over a decade. However, insufficient oral hygiene could lead you to need a replacement after just a few short years. Keeping good care of your dental bridges is essential to you get to keep your brand new smile. Much of the care needed is keeping your natural teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. The following is some general advice for taking care of your dental bridges in Jennings, MO:

• Brush and floss every day — Every dentist will recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once every day. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use a floss threader or interdental brush to get the spots under the bridge and between the teeth.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash — Fluoride mouthwash is the most effective at preventing tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — It’s a good idea to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can cause harm to your dental bridges. Examples include chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your twice-yearly dental appointments — You should visit your dentist for regular dental examinations and cleanings and polishings twice a year. Your dentist will be able to check the condition of your dental bridges and make any necessary adjustments.
• Consider a nightguard — If you experience tooth grinding when you sleep, it may be a good idea to invest in a nightguard.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity and functionality of your dental bridges.

Trust in Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Jennings, MO

Gaps in your teeth can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and can even affect a person’s ability to eat and speak properly. Fortunately, dental bridges are a proven solution regardless of the current condition of your mouth. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Jennings, MO is here to help. Call us today at (314)-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your dental bridges in Jennings, MO.