Bridgeton, MO

Dental Bridges in Bridgeton, MO

Dental bridges in Bridgeton, MO. When you need a smile makeover, 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 provide form and security to your teeth and gumline after tooth loss or other dental problems. Dental bridges must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile back to a beautiful, full one. Consider a consultation with Plaza Dental Center to learn if dental bridges are an appropriate solution for your needs. Call Plaza today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. We can help you create the exact smile that you want.

What Are Dental Bridges?

When you’ve either lost a tooth or have had a tooth removed, your existing teeth can move to make up for the loss in your bite. This can cause other complications for your gum health and teeth. A good way to fix this is to have dental bridges inserted over your existing teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your Bridgeton, MO dentist will cement caps on the teeth on either side of the gap, referred to as abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that covers over the gap in your teeth. Dental bridges are made of several different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a popular material used for dental bridges as it it can be painted to match the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain is also resistant to stains and is durable.
• Metal — Metal dental bridges are known for their strength and durability. They are often used for back teeth that require to be stronger for biting.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is also the color of natural teeth, and it’s bonded to the abutment teeth to support the bridge. It’s weaker than other materials but can be used for front teeth as they don’t need to be as resilient.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a more modern material used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural shade. It’s known for not irritating the mouth.
• Gold — These dental bridges are resistant to wear and erosion. Gold dental bridges are kinder to the gums as they have an antibacterial effect.

Types of Dental Bridges in Bridgeton, MO

Even though dental bridges are a common solution to dental problems such as tooth loss, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your Bridgeton, MO dentist will recommend what type you need. There are four chief categories of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — Also called a conventional bridge, this involves making a crown for the abutment teeth, with a pontic (a false tooth) in between. This is the most common type of dental bridge and is best when the patient still has teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
• Cantilever dental bridges — These are similar to traditional bridges, but they only require 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 — These involving placing wings on each side of the back of the artificial tooth and bonding them to the abutment teeth. These are particularly useful when you are missing one of your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than using natural teeth as anchors, implant-supported bridges are supported 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 sufficient bone density to support the implants.

Which type of dental bridge you need will depend on the overall health of your mouth and where the gap is located. If you’d like to discuss what type may be best for you, make an appointment online to ask with a professional Bridgeton, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in Bridgeton, MO

Getting dental bridges in Bridgeton, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in several steps. The following is the usual procedure in Bridgeton, MO:

• First consultation with the dentist — Your dentist carry out an examination of your teeth and gums and determine if you’re a good candidate for dental bridges. They’ll also go over the different types of dental bridges and which you might be suitable for.
• Preparation of the teeth for the bridge — If your dentist recommended a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepared by shaving off part of the enamel and dentin. This is done to make room for the dental crowns that will be placed over the teeth to anchor the bridge.
• Impression of the teeth — 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 — At the same appointment your Bridgeton, 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 mouth until you’re waiting for your permanent bridge.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — In your next appointment the permanent bridge will be implanted by your dentist, and adjusted as needed. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure that you and your mouth feel comfortable.
• Follow-up appointments and care — After your dental bridge is placed, you’ll need follow-up appointments to make sure that there are no unanticipated problems.

At Plaza Dental Center in Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, 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 Bridgeton, MO

When dental bridges are installed by a professional and experienced Bridgeton, MO dentist, the structure and function of your teeth will go back to their natural form. Dental bridges offer a lot of benefits:

• Improved oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your face. When you have missing teeth, the remaining teeth can move from their natural positions, causing problems with your bite and leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Better appearance — Dental bridges can give you a smile makeover that can bring back your confidence. They look just like your natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell the difference.
• Improved ability to eat and speak — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating problems you may have. When in there are gaps in your teeth, chewing can be challenging, which can lead to digestive issues. Dental bridges can help you regain your ability to chew and speak normally, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and communicate with others.
• Preventing further damage to your natural teeth — Dental bridges can help your mouth remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have missing teeth, your natural teeth take on more of the pressure when you chew and speak. This can lead to broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced 10 years or more. However, not taking care of them properly may lead to a much shorter lifespan for your bridges. Caring for dental bridges is important to make sure the benefits don’t go away. Much of the care needed is keeping your existing teeth healthy and strong so they can keep supporting the bridge. Below is some general advice for taking care of your dental bridges in Bridgeton, MO:

• Brush and floss regularly — You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. It may be a good idea 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 — Use fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing to help prevent tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — It’s best to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could cause harm to your dental bridges. This includes chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your biannual 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 adjustments if they think it necessary.
• Consider a nightguard — If you grind or clench your teeth at night, you may need a nightguard to protect your dental bridges and natural teeth from damage.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the lovely smiled you’ve regained isn’t going anywhere.

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

Missing teeth can affect how your mouth feels, looks, and functions. Fortunately, dental bridges are a proven solution to replace one or more missing teeth. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Bridgeton, MO is standing by. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in Bridgeton, MO.