Normandy, MO

Dental Bridges in Normandy, MO

Dental bridges in Normandy, 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 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 the loss of a tooth. Dental bridges must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile and jaw health back to their original form. Plaza Dental Center can help you decide if dental bridges are right for you. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. We can help you create the exact smile that you want.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Whether you lost a tooth in an accident or had one attracted, your existing teeth can move to compensate for the loss in your bite. This can cause other complications for your gum health and teeth. A good way to remedy this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your natural teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your Normandy, MO dentist will post crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, referred to as 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 it can be painted to match the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain is also relatively strong and stain-resistant.
• Metal — Metal dental bridges are made from alloys that are strong and durable. They are often used for molars or teeth near the back of your mouth as they require more strength for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is bonded to the existing 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 has just started being used for dental bridges, and it’s durable and has a natural look. It’s known for not irritating the mouth.
• Gold — These dental bridges are resistant to wear and erosion. Gold dental bridges also have antibacterial properties.

Types of Dental Bridges in Normandy, 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 Normandy, 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 — Also called a conventional bridge, this involves making a cap for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (artificial tooth) bridging the gap between. There are the most popular, and are 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. This is commonly used when the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than being connected to natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants, which are titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are most often used when you have numerous missing teeth next to each other. This is a longer lasting solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and a strong jawbone to support the implants.

Which type of dental bridge you require will be based 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 Normandy, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Normandy, MO

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

• First appointment at the dentist’s office — Your dentist carry out an examination of your teeth and gums and ascertain if you’re a good candidate for dental bridges. They will also discuss the four types of dental bridges and which might be best for you.
• Teeth Preparation — If you are getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepped by removing some 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.
• Tooth impression — An impression of the teeth will be taken 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 — At the same appointment your Normandy, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help safeguard 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 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 ensure that there are no unforeseen issues.

At Plaza Dental Center in Normandy, 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 Normandy, 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 Normandy, MO

When dental bridges are installed by a professional and experienced Normandy, MO dentist, the structure and function of your teeth will go back to their natural form. There are several benefits to this:

• Better oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your teeth, gums, jawbone, and face. When you have missing 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 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 chew and talk — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating problems you may have. When you have missing teeth, chewing can be challenging, which can lead to digestive issues. Dental bridges can help you regain your ability to chew and speak normally, allowing you to eat any food and reducing problems you may have had with speech.
• Preventing further damage to the existing teeth — Dental bridges can help your teeth and gums remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have missing teeth, the remaining teeth have to bear more weight when you chew and speak. This can lead to broken teeth like cracks and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

Taking Care of Your Dental Bridges

With proper oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last over a decade. However, inadequate oral hygiene could lead to a much shorter lifespan for your bridges. Caring for dental bridges is essential to you get to keep your brand new smile. A lot of what you need to do is keep your existing teeth healthy and strong so they can keep supporting the bridge. Below is some general advice for making sure your bridges in Normandy, MO last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss regularly — You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day. Make sure 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 — 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 could cause harm to your dental bridges. Some foods to avoid are chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your biannual dental appointments — As with everyone, you should have 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 when you go to bed, 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 Normandy, MO

Missing 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 no matter how many teeth are missing. If you want to get your functional and beautiful smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Normandy, MO is here to help. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in Normandy, MO.