Woodson Terrace, MO

Dental Bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO

Dental bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO. When gaps in your teeth are affecting your confidence and how speak and chew, dental bridges may be a solution. 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 provide form and security to your teeth and gumline if you’ve suffered the loss of a tooth. Dental bridges are custom-tailored to your specific needs, and they get your smile back to those pearly whites. Plaza Dental Center can help you decide if dental bridges are right for you. Call Plaza 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 issues with your teeth and gums. One of the most optimal solutions you can seek to fix this is to have dental bridges that literally bridge the gap between your existing teeth. If you get a dental bridge, your Woodson Terrace, MO dentist will cement crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap, referred to as abutment teeth. These crowns anchor the “bridge” that fills in the gap. Dental bridges can be made from a few different materials:

• Porcelain — Porcelain is a favorite among many as it it can be painted to match the color of your natural teeth. 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 molars or teeth near the back of your mouth as they require more strength for eating.
• Composite resin — Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that is bonded to the remaining teeth to support the bridge. It is not as strong as other materials but can be used for front teeth where aesthetics is more important than function.
• Zirconia — Zirconia is a more modern substance used for dental bridges, and it’s strong and has a natural look. 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 Woodson Terrace, MO

Even though dental bridges are a common answer to many dental problems, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your Woodson Terrace, 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 — This type of bridge involves making a crown for the abutment teeth, with a pontic (a false 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 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 teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These are especially useful when the gap is in your front teeth.
• Implant-supported dental bridges — Rather than using natural teeth as anchors, implant-supported bridges are supported by dental implants, which are titanium screws that are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported bridges are common when you have numerous missing teeth next to each other. This is a longer lasting solution for missing teeth but requires healthy gums and a strong jawbone for the posts to be implanted.

The type of dental bridge best for you 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 think dental bridges may be right for you, schedule an appointment online to speak with with an experienced Woodson Terrace, MO dentist.

Steps for Getting Dental Bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO

Getting dental bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO is an easy process, however it does take place in multiple appointments. Below are the typical steps involved in getting a dental bridge in Woodson Terrace, MO:

• First appointment at the dentist’s office — Your dentist carry out an examination of your teeth and gums 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.
• Preparation of the teeth for the bridge — If your dentist recommended a traditional or cantilever bridge, the two adjacent teeth will need to be prepared by removing 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 — 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 — At the same appointment your Woodson Terrace, MO dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge to keep things in place while you wait for your unique bridge. This will help safeguard your mouth until your permanent bridge is ready.
• Fitting and adjustment of the bridge — Once the bridge is made, it will be implanted by your dentist, and adjusted as necessary. 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 Woodson Terrace, 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 Woodson Terrace, MO patients the great dental care they need. Whatever your comfort level at the dentist is, we can help.

Benefits of Dental Bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO

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

• Improved 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 look just like your natural teeth, so no one will be able to spot the difference.
• Better ability to eat and talk — Dental bridges can help with any speech or eating issues you may have. When you have missing 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 the remaining teeth — Dental bridges can help your mouth remain strong by distributing the pressure evenly. When you have gaps between your teeth, your natural teeth need to account for that when you chew and speak. This can result in broken teeth like chips and other damage. Dental bridges distribute the pressure evenly throughout your mouth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridges

With proper oral hygiene, most dental bridges won’t need to be replaced 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 important to you get to keep your brand new smile. A lot of what you need to do is keep your natural teeth healthy and strong so they can keep supporting the bridge. The following is some general advice for taking care of your dental bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO:

• Brush and floss regularly — Every dentist will recommend that you 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 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 — It’s a good idea to avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could cause harm to your dental bridges. Some foods to avoid are chewy candies, hard nuts, and ice.
• Don’t forget your biannual dental appointments — As with anyone else, you should have dental examinations and cleanings and polishings every six months. Your dentist will make sure your dental bridges still fit and function optimally and make any necessary adjustments.
• Consider a nightguard — If you experience tooth grinding at night, it may be a good idea to invest in a nightguard.

By following these tips, you can help ensure the lovely smiled you’ve restored is here to stay.

Call Plaza Dental Center for Your Dental Bridges in Woodson Terrace, 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 are a proven solution no matter how many teeth are missing. If you want to get your functional and pearly white smile back, Plaza Dental Center in Woodson Terrace, MO is standing by. Speak to a team member today at (314)-361-1818 or contact us online for your dental bridges in Woodson Terrace, MO.