Riverview Gardens, MO

Dental Bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO

Dental bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO. When gaps in your teeth are affecting your confidence and how speak and chew, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a form 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 suffered tooth loss or other dental problems. Dental bridges must be custom-fitted, and they get your smile and jaw health back to their original form. Consider an appointment with Plaza Dental Center to discover if dental bridges are right for you. Call Plaza today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online. Be proud of your smile again.

What Are Dental Bridges?

No matter why you have a gap in your teeth, your existing teeth can move to fill in the gap. This can lead to further issues with your teeth and gums. One of the most optimal solutions you can seek to remedy this is to have dental bridges inserted over your existing teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your Riverview Gardens, MO dentist will post crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that fills in the gap. Dental bridges are made of a few 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 durable 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 more strength for eating.
• 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 don’t need to be as resilient.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a newly developed substance used for dental bridges, and it’s durable and has a natural shade. It is often used for both front and back teeth.
• 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 Riverview Gardens, MO

Even though dental bridges are a common solution to many dental problems, different mouths require different approaches. Your Riverview Gardens, 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 crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (a false tooth) in between. This is the most common type of dental bridge and is 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 need 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 teeth on either side. These are particularly useful 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 titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are most often used when several teeth in a row are missing. These can lost longer than other types of bridges but requires healthy gums and a strong jawbone to support the implants.

Which type of dental bridge you need 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 know which type of dental bridge you may be suitable for, request an appointment online to ask with a professional Riverview Gardens, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO

Getting a dental bridge typically involves several steps and may require multiple visits to your Riverview Gardens, MO dentist. Here is the usual procedure in Riverview Gardens, 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.
• Preparation of the teeth for the bridge — 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 allows for space for the crowns to comfortable fit over.
• Tooth impression — An impression of the teeth will be made to create a model for the bridge and artificial cap. Your dentist will then send that impression to a dental laboratory, where a bridge will be custom-made for your unique teeth.
• Temporary bridge — At the same appointment your Riverview Gardens, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help protect your mouth until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — When you’re permanent bridge arrives, it will be implanted by your dentist, and adjusted as needed. The dentist will work to ensure that the bridge feels comfortable in your mouth.
• 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 there are no unanticipated problems.

At Plaza Dental Center in Riverview Gardens, 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 Riverview Gardens, 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 Riverview Gardens, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Riverview Gardens, MO can return the structure and function of your teeth like you never thought possible. Dental bridges offer a lot of benefits:

• Improved oral health — Dental bridges can help maintain the natural shape of your face and jawbone. 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.
• Better ability to bite 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 issues. Dental bridges can restore 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 natural teeth — Dental bridges can help prevent further damage to your remaining teeth by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, the remaining teeth need to account for that when you chew and speak. This can cause broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridges

With proper oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last over a decade. However, insufficient oral hygiene could lead you to need a replacement after just a few short years. Caring for dental bridges is important to you get to keep your brand new smile. Much of the care needed is keeping your natural teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. Below are some tips for taking care of your dental bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO:

• Brush and floss regularly — Every dentist will recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once daily. Make sure 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 — Use fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing to help prevent tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — It’s best to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could damage your dental bridges. Examples include chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your regular dental appointments — 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 optimally 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 longevity and functionality of your dental bridges.

Trust in Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO

Gaps in your teeth can affect how your mouth feels, looks, and functions. Fortunately, dental bridges provide an effective solution no matter how many teeth are missing. If you want to get your functional and beautiful smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Riverview Gardens, MO is here to help. Call us today at (314)-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your dental bridges in Riverview Gardens, MO.