Overland, MO

Dental Bridges in Overland, MO

Dental bridges in Overland, MO. When gaps in your teeth are affecting your self-esteem and how your teeth function, dental bridges may be an option you should consider. 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 help you regain function and appearance if you’ve experienced tooth loss or other dental problems. Dental bridges are custom-tailored to your specific teeth and mouth, and they get your smile back to those pearly whites. Consider a consultation with Plaza Dental Center to learn if dental bridges are right for you. Call Plaza today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. Become proud of your smile again.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

No matter why you have a gap in your teeth, your other teeth will move 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 fix this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your natural teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Overland, MO dentist will post crowns on the teeth adjacent to 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 can be made from several different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a popular material used for dental bridges because it it can be painted to match the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain is also resistant to stains and is durable.
• Alloy — Metal dental bridges are known for their strength and resilience. They are often used for back teeth that require more strength for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is bonded to the existing 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 has recently started being used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural shade. It is often used for both front and back teeth.
• Gold — These dental bridges are resistant to wear and erosion. Gold dental bridges are kinder to the gingival tissue as they have an antibacterial effect.

Types of Dental Bridges in Overland, MO

While dental bridges are a frequently-requested answer to dental problems such as tooth loss, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your Overland, 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 creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (artificial tooth) bridging the gap between. This is the most common type of dental bridge and is often used 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 you are missing one of 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 a good option when several teeth in a row are missing. These can lost longer than other kinds of bridges but requires healthy gums and sufficient bone density for the screws to be implanted.

Which type of dental bridge you need will be based 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, schedule an appointment online to speak with with a professional Overland, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in Overland, MO

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

• Initial 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 four types of dental bridges and which you might be suitable for.
• Preparation of the teeth for the bridge — If you are getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the two adjacent teeth will need to be prepared 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 anchor the bridge.
• Impression of the teeth — 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 Overland, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge to keep things in place while your unique bridge is being made. 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 make adjustments to ensure that the bridge feels comfortable in your mouth.
• Follow-up appointments and care — Once your permanent dental bridge is implanted, you’ll need follow-up appointments to ensure that the bridge is functioning properly and your gums and teeth are healthy.

At Plaza Dental Center in Overland, 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 Overland, 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 Overland, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Overland, MO can do wonders for your mouth. Dental bridges offer a lot of benefits:

• Better oral health — Dental bridges can help prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of position. 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 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.
• Improved ability to bite and talk — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating problems you may have. When in there are gaps in your teeth, it can be difficult to chew your food properly, leading to digestive problems. Dental bridges can help you regain natural ways of chewing and speaking, allowing you to eat any food and reducing problems you may have had with speech.
• Preventing further damage to your other teeth — Dental bridges can help your mouth remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, the remaining teeth take on more of the pressure when you chew and speak. This can cause broken teeth like chips or even entire fractures. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

Taking Care of Your Dental Bridges

With proper oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last 10 years or more. 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 important 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 are durable enough to anchor the bridge. The following are some tips for making sure your bridges in Overland, MO last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss consistently — Every dentist will recommend that you 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 get the spots under the bridge and between the teeth.
• Use a fluoride mouthwash — Fluoride mouthwash is the most proficient at preventing tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — Try 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 be able to check the condition of your dental bridges and make any necessary adjustments.
• 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 restored isn’t going anywhere.

Trust in Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Overland, 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 Overland, MO is standing by. Call us today at (314)-361-1818 or make an appointment online for your dental bridges in Overland, MO.