St. Ann, MO

Dental Bridges in St. Ann, MO

Dental bridges in St. Ann, MO. When you need a smile 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 help you regain function and appearance if you’ve suffered tooth loss or other dental problems. Dental bridges must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile back to those pearly whites. Consider an appointment with Plaza Dental Center to learn 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 shift to compensate for the loss in your bite. This can lead to further issues with your teeth and gums. A good way to fix this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your existing teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your St. Ann, MO dentist will post crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, called abutment teeth. These crowns act as the anchor for the “bridge” that fills in the gap. Dental bridges can be made from a few different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a popular material used for dental bridges because it can be color-matched to the surrounding teeth, making it appear like it’s one of your original teeth. Porcelain is also relatively durable and stain-resistant.
• 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 eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is cemented to the existing teeth to offer more support. It’s weaker than other materials but can be used for front teeth where aesthetics are important.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a newer substance used for dental bridges, and it’s durable and has a natural shade. It’s known for not irritating the mouth.
• Gold — These dental bridges are resistant to wear and erosion. Gold dental bridges also have antibacterial properties.

Types of Dental Bridges in St. Ann, MO

While dental bridges are a frequently-requested solution to dental problems such as tooth loss, no one solution works for every patient. Your St. Ann, MO dentist will be able to tell you which type is best for you. There are four chief categories of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridges — This type of bridge involves making 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 the patient still has 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 teeth on either side of the missing tooth. 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 supported 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. This is a longer lasting solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and adequate bone density to support the implants.

The type of dental bridge best for you 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, make an appointment through our website to speak with with a professional St. Ann, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in St. Ann, MO

Getting dental bridges in St. Ann, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in multiple appointments. Here is the usual procedure in St. Ann, MO:

• First consultation at the dentist’s office — Your dentist carry out an examination of your mouth and determine 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 drilling 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 the bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth.
• Temporary bridge — Your St. Ann, 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 — Once the bridge is made, it will be fitted and adjusted to ensure a proper fit. The dentist will make adjustments to ensure that the bridge feels comfortable in your mouth.
• Follow-up appointments and care — After your dental bridge is placed, you’ll need follow-up appointments to ensure that there are no unforeseen problems.

At Plaza Dental Center in St. Ann, 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 St. Ann, MO patients the great dental care they need. Whatever your comfort level at the dentist is, we can help.

Benefits of Dental Bridges in St. Ann, MO

Dental bridges implanted by an experienced St. Ann, 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 and jawbone. If you’re missing a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift out of place, causing problems with your bite and leading to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Improved appearance — Dental bridges can give you a smile makeover that can restore your smile and help boost your confidence. They look exactly like your natural teeth, so they blend seamlessly into your smile.
• It’s easier to eat and talk — Dental bridges can improve your ability to chew and speak properly. When in there are gaps in your teeth, chewing can be challenging, which can lead to digestive issues. Dental bridges can help you regain natural ways of chewing and speaking, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and communicate with others.
• Preventing further damage to the existing teeth — Dental bridges can help your mouth remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, your existing teeth have to bear more weight when you chew and speak. This can cause broken teeth like cracks and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your teeth and gums.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With adequate oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced over a decade. 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 maintain their longevity and functionality. Much of the care needed is keeping your natural teeth and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. Here are some tips for making sure your bridges in St. Ann, MO last as long as possible:

• Brush and floss every day — You should brush your teeth at least twice a day 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 effective at preventing tooth decay.
• Avoid sticky and hard foods — Try to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can cause harm to 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 adjustments as they see fit.
• Consider a nightguard — If you experience tooth grinding 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.

Trust in Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in St. Ann, MO

Missing teeth can affect how your mouth feels, looks, and functions. Fortunately, dental bridges are a proven solution to replace one or more missing teeth. If you want to get your functional and beautiful smile back, Plaza Dental Center in St. Ann, MO is standing by. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or request an appointment online for your dental bridges in St. Ann, MO.