Northwoods, MO

Dental Bridges in Northwoods, MO

Dental bridges in Northwoods, MO. When gaps in your teeth are affecting your self-esteem and how your teeth function, dental bridges may be a solution. Dental bridges are a form of cosmetic dentistry where prosthetic tooth covers 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 must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile back to those pearly whites. Consider a consultation with Plaza Dental Center to discover if dental bridges are right for you. 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?

Whether you lost a tooth in an accident or had one attracted, your existing teeth can 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 inserted over your existing teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Northwoods, MO dentist will cement caps on the teeth on either side of the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns act as the anchor for 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 as it can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making it look natural. Porcelain is also relatively sturdy 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 need to be more durable for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is also the color of natural teeth, and it’s cemented to the remaining teeth to support the bridge. It is not as strong as other materials but can be used for front teeth where aesthetics are important.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a more modern substance used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural look. It is often used for both front and back teeth.
• Gold — These dental bridges do not erode as much as other bridges. Gold dental bridges are kinder to the gingival tissue as they have an antibacterial effect.

Types of Dental Bridges in Northwoods, MO

Even though dental bridges are a common solution to many dental problems, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your Northwoods, MO dentist will be able to tell you which type is best for you. There are four main categories of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — This type of bridge involves creating 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 common, and are best when there are natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
• 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 — This type of bridge uses a metal or porcelain wings that are attached to the back of the abutment teeth. This is commonly used when you are trying to replace one of your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than being connected to natural teeth, these bridges are anchored by dental implants, which are surgically implanted titanium posts. Implant-supported bridges are common 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 to support the implants.

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 think dental bridges may be right for you, schedule an appointment online to consult with a professional Northwoods, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Northwoods, MO

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

• Initial consultation with the dentist — Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you. They’ll also go over the various types of dental bridges and help you select the best option for your specific needs.
• Tooth Preparation — If your dentist recommended a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepped by shaving 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.
• Tooth impression — An impression of the teeth will be taken to create a model for the bridge and pontic. 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 Northwoods, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge to give you form and function while your unique bridge is being made. This will help safeguard your mouth until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — Once the bridge is made, it 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 will need to return to your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure that the bridge is functioning properly and your gums and teeth are healthy.

At Plaza Dental Center in Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, 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 Northwoods, MO

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

• Better oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your face. When there’s a gap in your teeth, 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 exactly like your natural teeth, so no one will be able to tell the difference.
• It’s easier to chew 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 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 your other teeth — Dental bridges can help prevent further damage to your remaining teeth by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have missing teeth, your natural teeth need to account for that when you chew and speak. This can cause broken teeth like chips or even entire fractures. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your mouth.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced over a decade. However, not taking care of them properly may lead to a much shorter lifespan for your bridges. Keeping good care of your dental bridges is essential to maintain their longevity and functionality. A lot of what you need to do is keep your natural teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. The following are some tips for taking care of your dental bridges in Northwoods, MO:

• Brush and floss every day — You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss once every day. It may be a good idea to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean 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 could damage your dental bridges. Some foods to avoid are chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Visit your dentist regularly — As with everyone, 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 if they think it necessary.
• Consider a nightguard — If you suffer from tooth grinding at night, it may be a good idea to invest in a nightguard.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the lovely smiled you’ve regained is here to stay.

Call Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Northwoods, 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 to replace one or more missing teeth. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Northwoods, MO is standing by. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in Northwoods, MO.