Central West End, MO

Dental Bridges in Central West End, MO

Dental bridges in Central West End, MO. When your smile is in need of a makeover, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a type of cosmetic dentistry where dental covers are placed over a gap in your tooth. They help you regain function and appearance if you’ve experienced tooth loss or other dental problems. 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 see if dental bridges are right for you. Call Plaza today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. Become proud of your smile again.

What Are Dental Bridges?

No matter why you have a gap in your teeth, your existing teeth will shift to fill in the gap. This can cause other complications for your gum health and teeth. One of the most optimal solutions you can seek to remedy this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your existing teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your Central West End, MO dentist will place crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that covers over the gap in your teeth. Dental bridges can be made from several different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a favorite among many because 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 made from alloys that are strong and durable. They are often used for back teeth that require more strength for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is also the color of natural teeth, and it’s bonded to the abutment teeth to offer more support. It is not as strong as other materials but can be used for front teeth as they don’t need to be as resilient.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a newly developed material used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural look. It’s known for not irritating the mouth.
• Gold — These dental bridges do not erode as much as other bridges. Gold dental bridges are kinder to the gums as they have an antibacterial effect.

Types of Dental Bridges in Central West End, MO

While dental bridges are a frequently-requested solution to many dental problems, different mouths require different approaches. Your Central West End, MO dentist will be able to tell you which type is best for you. There are four chief types of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — This type of bridge involves making a cap for the abutment teeth, with a pontic (artificial tooth) bridging the gap between. There are the most popular, 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 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 — This type of bridge uses a metal or porcelain wings that are attached to the back of the abutment teeth. These are particularly useful when you are missing one of your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Instead of being supported by natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants, which are titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are common when you have numerous missing teeth next to each other. This is a more permanent solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and a strong jawbone for the posts to be implanted.

The type of dental bridge best for you will depend on the overall health of your mouth and where the gap is located. If you’d like to know which type of dental bridge you may be suitable for, make an appointment through our website to consult with a professional Central West End, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Central West End, MO

Getting dental bridges in Central West End, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in multiple appointments. Below is the usual procedure in Central West End, MO:

• Initial consultation at the dentist’s office — Your dentist carry out an examination of your mouth and ascertain if a dental bridge is the best option for you. They’ll also go over the four types of dental bridges and which might be best for you.
• Teeth Preparation — If your dentist recommended a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepared by drilling off some of the enamel and dentin. This is done to make room for the dental crowns that will be placed over the teeth to support the bridge.
• Impression of the teeth — An impression of the teeth will be made to create a model for the bridge and artificial cap. This model is sent to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth.
• Temporary bridge — Your Central West End, MO dentist may place a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help safeguard your mouth until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — When you’re permanent bridge arrives, it will be fitted and adjusted to ensure a proper fit. The dentist will work to ensure that the bridge fits nicely into your teeth and gums.
• 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 issues.

At Plaza Dental Center in Central West End, 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 Central West End, 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 Central West End, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Central West End, MO can do wonders for your mouth. There are several benefits to this:

• Improved oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your face and jawbone. If you’re missing a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift out of place, causing dental problems that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Improved appearance — Dental bridges offer a smile makeover that can bring back your confidence. They look just like your natural teeth, so they blend seamlessly into your smile.
• It’s easier to chew and talk — Dental bridges can improve your ability to chew and speak properly. When you have missing teeth, it can be difficult to chew your food properly, leading to digestive issues. Dental bridges can help you regain natural ways of chewing and speaking, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and communicate with others.
• Preventing further damage to your natural teeth — Dental bridges can help your teeth and gums remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, your natural teeth have to bear more weight when you chew and speak. This can cause broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With proper oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced 10 years or more. However, not taking care of them properly could lead you to need a replacement after just a few short years. Keeping good care of your dental bridges is essential to make sure the benefits don’t go away. Much of the care needed is keeping your existing teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. Below is some general advice for making sure your bridges in Central West End, MO last as long as possible:

• 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 clean out the plaque and bacteria 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.
• Visit your dentist regularly — As with anyone else, you should have dental examinations and cleanings and polishings every six months. Your dentist will make sure your dental bridges still fit and perform as need and make adjustments as they see fit.
• 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 longevity and functionality of your dental bridges.

Trust in Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Central West End, 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 provide an effective solution no matter how many teeth are missing. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Central West End, MO is here to help. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or request an appointment throughout for your dental bridges in Central West End, MO.