University City, MO

Dental Bridges in University City, MO

Dental bridges in University City, MO. When you need a smile makeover, dental bridges could be your answer. Dental bridges are a form of cosmetic dentistry where prosthetic tooth 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 must be custom-fitted, and they return your smile and jaw health back to their natural state. Consider a consultation with Plaza Dental Center to discover if dental bridges are an appropriate solution for your needs. 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?

When you’ve either lost a tooth or have had a tooth removed, your existing teeth will shift to compensate for the loss in your bite. This can lead to additional issues with your teeth and gums. A good way to remedy this is to have dental bridges inserted over your existing teeth. When you go for a dental bridge, your University City, MO dentist will place crowns 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 several 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 resistant to stains and is durable.
• Metal — Metal dental bridges are made from alloys that are strong and durable. 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 abutment teeth to support the bridge. It is not as strong as other materials but can be used for front teeth where aesthetics are important.
• Zirconia — Zirconia has just 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 do not erode as much as other bridges. Gold dental bridges also have antibacterial properties.

Types of Dental Bridges in University City, MO

While dental bridges are a common answer to many dental problems, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your University City, 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 making a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (a false tooth) in between. There are the most popular, and are often used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
• Cantilever dental bridges — These are similar to traditional bridges, with the exception that the bridge is connected to only one abutment tooth instead of two.
• Maryland dental bridges — This type of bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. This is commonly used when the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than using natural teeth as anchors, 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. This is a more permanent solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implants.

The type of dental bridge best for you will be based on your overall dental health and where which specific tooth or teeth are missing. If you’d like to know which type of dental bridge you may be suitable for, schedule an appointment through our website to speak with with a knowledgeable University City, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in University City, MO

Getting dental bridges in University City, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in several steps. The following are the typical steps involved in getting a dental bridge in University City, MO:

• First consultation with the dentist — Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and ascertain if a dental bridge is the best option for you. They’ll also walk you through the four types of dental bridges and help you select the best option for your specific needs.
• Teeth Preparation — If you are getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, the two adjacent teeth will need to be prepared by removing some of the enamel and dentin. This allows for space for the caps to easily fit over.
• Impression of the teeth — An impression of the teeth will be made to create a model for the bridge and pontic. Your dentist will then send that model to a dental laboratory, where the bridge is custom-made to fit your mouth.
• Temporary bridge — At the same appointment your University City, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge while your custom bridge is being created in a dental laboratory. This will help safeguard your teeth and gums until you’re waiting for your permanent bridge.
• 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 — Once your permanent dental bridge is implanted, 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 University City, 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 University City, MO patients the great dental care they need. Whatever your comfort level at the dentist is, we can help.

Benefits of Dental Bridges in University City, MO

Dental bridges implanted by an experienced University City, 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. If you’re missing a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift out of place, causing dental problems that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
• Better appearance — Dental bridges can give you 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 issues you may have. When in there are gaps in your teeth, it can be difficult to chew your food properly, leading to digestive issues. Dental bridges can restore natural ways of chewing and speaking, making it easier to enjoy your favorite foods and reducing problems you may have had with speech.
• Preventing further damage to the existing teeth — Dental bridges can help your teeth and gums remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have missing 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 mouth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With adequate oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced 10 years or more. However, poor oral hygiene could 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 and gums healthy and strong so they are durable enough to anchor the bridge. Here are some tips for taking care of your dental bridges in University City, MO:

• Brush and floss every day — 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 clean out the plaque and bacteria 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 damage your dental bridges. This includes chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your biannual dental appointments — You should visit your dentist for regular dental examinations and cleanings and polishings twice a year. Your dentist will make sure your dental bridges still fit and function as need 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.

Contact Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in University City, 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 regardless of the current condition of your dental health. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in University City, MO is here to help. Call us today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in University City, MO.