Olivette, MO

Dental Bridges in Olivette, MO

Dental bridges in Olivette, MO. When gaps in your teeth are affecting your confidence and how your teeth function, dental bridges may be an option you should consider. Dental bridges are a type of cosmetic dentistry where prosthetic crowns are placed over a gap in your tooth. 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 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.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

Whether you lost a tooth in an accident or had one attracted, your other teeth can move to fill in the gap. This can lead to further issues with your teeth and gums. A good way to remedy this is to have dental bridges inserted over your existing teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Olivette, MO dentist will post caps on the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. These crowns act as the anchor for the “bridge” that covers over the gap in your teeth. Dental bridges are made of 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 resilience. They are often used for back teeth that require to be more durable for biting.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is also the color of natural teeth, and it’s cemented to the existing teeth to offer more support. It’s weaker than other materials but can be used for front teeth as they aren’t needed for chewing.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a newly developed material used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural tint. 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 Olivette, MO

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

• Traditional dental bridges — This type of bridge involves making a cap for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (a false tooth) in between. There are the most common, and are often used when the patient still has teeth on both sides 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 the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than being connected to natural teeth, 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 a good option when several teeth in a row are missing. This is a longer lasting solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and sufficient bone density for the posts to be implanted.

Which type of dental bridge you require will depend on where in your mouth the gaps in the teeth are and any other dental work your mouth may need. If you’d like to discuss what type may be best for you, request an appointment through our website to consult with a professional Olivette, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Olivette, MO

Getting a dental bridge usually involves several steps and may require multiple visits to your Olivette, MO dentist. Here is the usual procedure in Olivette, MO:

• First appointment at the dentist’s office — Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and ascertain if you’re a good candidate for dental bridges. They will also discuss the various 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 tooth or teeth to the side of the gap will need to be prepped 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.
• Tooth impression — Your dentist will then make an impression of your tooth. Your dentist will then send that model to a dental laboratory, where a bridge will be custom-manufactured for your unique teeth.
• Temporary bridge — At the same appointment your Olivette, MO dentist may place a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help safeguard 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 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 make sure that the bridge is functioning properly and your gums and teeth are healthy.

At Plaza Dental Center in Olivette, 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 Olivette, 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 Olivette, MO

Dental bridges implanted by an experienced Olivette, 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. If you’re missing a tooth, 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 notice the difference.
• Better ability to eat 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 problems. 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 other 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 need to account for that when you chew and speak. This can result in broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your mouth.

Taking Care of Your Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last over a decade. However, not taking care of them properly may 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 natural teeth healthy and strong so they can keep supporting the bridge. Below is some general advice for taking care of your dental bridges in Olivette, MO:

• Brush and floss consistently — 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 — Rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing to help prevent 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. Examples include chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Visit your dentist regularly — You should visit your dentist for regular 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 any necessary adjustments.
• Consider a nightguard — If you experience tooth grinding at night, it may be a good idea to invest in a nightguard.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the longevity and functionality of your dental bridges.

Call Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Olivette, 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 regardless of the current condition of your dental health. If you want to get your functional and beautiful smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Olivette, MO is here to help. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or schedule an appointment online for your dental bridges in Olivette, MO.