Shrewsbury, MO

Dental Bridges in Shrewsbury, MO

Dental bridges in Shrewsbury, MO. When your smile is in need of a makeover, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a specialty within cosmetic dentistry where dental covers 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 are custom-tailored to your specific teeth and mouth, and they get your smile back to a beautiful, full one. Consider an appointment with Plaza Dental Center to learn 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?

No matter why you have a gap in your teeth, your other teeth will move to compensate for the loss in your bite. This can lead to other dental problems. One of the most optimal solutions you can seek 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 Shrewsbury, MO dentist will post crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that covers over the gap in your teeth. Dental bridges can be made from a few different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a popular material used for dental bridges as it can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making it look natural. Porcelain is also relatively sturdy and stain-resistant.
• Alloy — Metal dental bridges are known for their strength and durability. They are often used for back teeth that need to be stronger for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is also the color of natural teeth, and it’s cemented to the abutment 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 more modern substance used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural tint. 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 are kinder to the gums as they have an antibacterial effect.

Types of Dental Bridges in Shrewsbury, MO

Even though dental bridges are a frequently-requested solution to dental problems such as tooth loss, no one solution works for everyone. Your Shrewsbury, MO dentist will recommend which type is best for you and your specific needs. There are four chief types of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — Also called a conventional bridge, this involves creating a crown for the abutment teeth, 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 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 adjacent teeth. This is commonly used when you are trying to replace one of your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Instead of being connected to natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants, which are surgically implanted titanium posts. Implant-supported bridges are a good option when several teeth in a row are missing. This is a more permanent solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implants.

Which type of dental bridge you require will be based on the overall health of your mouth and where which specific tooth or teeth are missing. If you think dental bridges may be right for you, schedule an appointment through our website to speak with with an experienced Shrewsbury, MO dentist.

Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge in Shrewsbury, MO

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

• First appointment at the dentist’s office — Your dentist carry out an examination of your mouth and determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you. They will also discuss the different types of dental bridges and help you select the best option for your specific needs.
• Teeth Preparation — If your dentist recommended a traditional or cantilever bridge, the abutment tooth or teeth will need to be prepped by removing part of the enamel and dentin. This allows for space for the crowns to easily fit over.
• Tooth impression — An impression of the teeth will be made to create a model for the bridge and pontic. This model is sent to a dental laboratory, where a bridge will be custom-manufactured for your unique mouth.
• Temporary bridge — At the same appointment your Shrewsbury, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge to give you form and function while you wait for your unique bridge. This will help safeguard your teeth and gums until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — In your next appointment the permanent bridge will be fitted and adjusted to ensure a proper fit. 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 make sure that the bridge is functioning properly and your gums and teeth are healthy.

At Plaza Dental Center in Shrewsbury, 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 Shrewsbury, 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 Shrewsbury, MO

Dental bridges implanted by a knowledgeable Shrewsbury, MO can return the structure and function of your teeth like you never thought possible. There are several benefits to this:

• 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 restore your smile and help boost your confidence. They look just like your natural teeth, so they blend seamlessly into your smile.
• Better ability to chew and talk — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating problems you may have. When you have missing teeth, it can be difficult to chew your food properly, leading to digestive problems. Dental bridges can restore natural ways of chewing and speaking, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and communicate with others.
• Preventing further damage to the remaining 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 natural teeth have to bear more weight when you chew and speak. This can result in broken teeth like cracks and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly around your teeth.

Taking Care of Your Dental Bridges

With adequate oral hygiene, most dental bridges can last 10 years or more. However, not taking care of them properly may lead you to need a replacement after just a few short years. Caring for dental bridges is essential to make sure the benefits don’t go away. Much of the care needed is keeping your natural teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. The following is some general advice for making sure your bridges in Shrewsbury, MO last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss consistently — You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss once daily. 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 proficient at preventing tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — It’s best to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could cause harm to your dental bridges. This includes chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Visit your dentist regularly — As with everyone, you should have 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 at night, 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.

Call Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Shrewsbury, MO

Missing teeth can affect how your mouth feels, looks, and functions. Fortunately, dental bridges provide an effective solution to replace one or more missing teeth. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Shrewsbury, MO is here to help. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or request an appointment throughout for your dental bridges in Shrewsbury, MO.