Maryland Heights, MO

Dental Bridges in Maryland Heights, MO

Dental bridges in Maryland Heights, MO. When you need a smile makeover, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a specialty within cosmetic dentistry where prosthetic crowns are placed over a gap in your tooth. They provide form and security to your teeth and gumline after tooth loss or other dental problems. Dental bridges are custom-tailored to your specific needs, and they get your smile back to those pearly whites. Consider an appointment with Plaza Dental Center to discover if dental bridges are an appropriate solution for your needs. Call Plaza 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 move to fill in the gap. This can lead to additional issues with your teeth and gums. One of the most optimal solutions you can seek to fix this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your natural teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Maryland Heights, MO dentist will cement crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns act as the anchor for the “bridge” that fills in the gap. Dental bridges can be made from a few different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a favorite among many 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 more strength for chewing.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is cemented to the existing teeth to support the bridge. It is not as strong as other materials but can be used for front teeth where look matters more than function.
• Zirconia — Zirconia has just started being used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural color. It’s known for not irritating the mouth.
• Gold — These dental bridges do not suffer wear and tear as much as other bridges. Gold dental bridges also have antibacterial properties.

Types of Dental Bridges in Maryland Heights, MO

While dental bridges are a common answer to many dental problems, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your Maryland Heights, MO dentist will recommend what type you need. There are four chief types of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — Also called a conventional bridge, this involves making a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (artificial tooth) in between. This is the most common type of dental bridge and is best when there are natural teeth on either side of the gap.
• Cantilever dental bridges — These are similar to traditional bridges, with the exception that the bridge is anchored by only one abutment tooth instead of two.
• 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 especially useful when the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Instead of being connected to natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants, which are surgically implanted titanium posts. Implant-supported bridges are most often used when several teeth in a row are missing. 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 where in your mouth the gaps in the teeth are and any other dental work your mouth may need. If you think dental bridges may be right for you, schedule an appointment online to ask with a professional Maryland Heights, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Maryland Heights, MO

Getting dental bridges in Maryland Heights, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in multiple appointments. The following are the typical steps involved in getting a dental bridge in Maryland Heights, MO:

• Initial appointment with the dentist — Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you. They will also discuss the four types of dental bridges and help you select the best option for your specific needs.
• Tooth Preparation — If you are getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepped by drilling off some of the enamel and dentin. This allows for space for the crowns to comfortable fit over.
• 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 — Your Maryland Heights, MO dentist may place a temporary bridge to keep things in place while your unique bridge is being made. 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 fitted and adjusted to ensure a proper fit. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure that you and your mouth feel comfortable.
• Follow-up appointments and care — Once your unique dental bridge is implanted, you will need to return to your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure that there are no unanticipated problems.

At Plaza Dental Center in Maryland Heights, 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 Maryland Heights, MO patients the great dental care they need. Whatever your comfort level at the dentist is, we can help.

Benefits of Dental Bridges in Maryland Heights, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Maryland Heights, MO can return the structure and function of your teeth like you never thought possible. There are several benefits to this:

• Better oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your face. If you’re missing a tooth, 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.
• Better ability to eat and speak — 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 restore your ability to chew and speak normally, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and reducing problems you may have had with speech.
• Preventing further damage to the remaining 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 result in broken teeth like cracks or even entire fractures. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your mouth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last 10 years or more. However, not taking care of them properly could lead to a much shorter lifespan for your bridges. Caring for dental bridges is essential to make sure the benefits don’t go away. Much of the care needed is keeping your natural teeth healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. Below is some general advice for taking care of your dental bridges in Maryland Heights, MO:

• Brush and floss consistently — 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 successful at preventing tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — It’s a good idea to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can damage your dental bridges. Some foods to avoid are chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your regular dental appointments — As with anyone else, you should have dental examinations and cleanings and polishings twice a year. Your dentist will make sure your dental bridges still fit and function as need and make adjustments as they see fit.
• Consider a nightguard — If you suffer from tooth grinding 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.

Contact Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Maryland Heights, MO

Gaps in your teeth can affect how your mouth feels, looks, and functions. Fortunately, dental bridges provide an effective 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 Maryland Heights, MO is standing by. Call us today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in Maryland Heights, MO.