Are you missing multiple teeth? Maybe you have whole arches of teeth that need to be replaced. Dental bridges can help fill in the gaps left by missing teeth while providing long-lasting support.
But why should missing teeth be replaced in the first place, and what benefits do dental bridges offer?
Missing Teeth Problems
Replacing missing teeth can help improve your overall oral health and can also prevent further problems from arising. Some of these problems may include:
- Shifting Teeth
- Overcrowding
- Misaligned Bite
- Gum Disease
- Tooth Decay
Replacing missing teeth with restorative options like dental bridges can help prevent these problems with the right dental care.
Restorative Treatment with Dental Bridges
Premier Dental Care offers dental bridges that are secured with dental implants. Secured dental bridges provide more stability and last longer than removable dental bridges.
Before restorative treatment, Dr. Karim Naguib will perform an examination of the teeth and gums and will review any dental x-rays to determine if a dental bridge is right for you. He will then create a comprehensive plan for the placement of the dental bridge.
If there are any natural teeth adjacent to tooth gaps, your dentist will prepare them to support the bridge. We will take dental impressions of your teeth and then send them to a dental lab. Here, they will fabricate your new dental bridge.
Dental bridges usually consist of a metal framework that is covered by porcelain to improve the aesthetics of the patient’s smile.
When complete, our dentist in Lancaster, CA will ensure that the dental bridge fits properly before it is attached with adhesive cement. Dental bridges can offer many benefits to patients with missing teeth. Dental bridges can:
- Restore the ability to bite and chew evenly
- Prevent teeth from shifting
- Help support any remaining tooth structure
- Maintain a patient’s face shape
Securing a Bridge with Dental Implants
Supporting a dental bridge with dental implants provides the most lifelike replacement for missing teeth. The implants will hold the bridge in place instead of the adjacent teeth.
This eliminates the need to degrade perfectly healthy teeth. Additionally, dental implants promote continuous bone growth. This prevents both bone shrinkage and gum recession associated with traditional bridges.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How many teeth can be on a bridge?
You can replace up to 4 teeth in a row with traditional bridges. Implant-supported bridges can replace more missing teeth. Your options will depend on the current state of your oral health.
How do you clean a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is simple to clean. You can take care of it as you would natural teeth. Your dentist will recommend paying special attention to floss under your bridge every time you brush your teeth. Bacteria can thrive under a bridge, causing gum infections and cavities on the anchor teeth.
Does a dental bridge feel natural?
Modern dental bridges feel and act as naturally as real teeth do. Bridges made by an experienced dentist will fit seamlessly, without wiggle room, and look like your natural teeth.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge can last for about 5 to 15 years. The bridge’s longevity will depend on your oral hygiene habits, how well you care for it, and the material your dentist uses. Additionally, you should avoid biting and consuming hard foods and teeth grinding. Regular dental visits and exams are also important to maintaining your bridge.
Is a dental bridge procedure painful?
The dental bridge procedure is generally not painful. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area before starting the treatment. This ensures that you feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. However, you may experience soreness or tenderness after the anesthesia wears off. You can manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications. It’s also important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to minimize any discomfort.
How many teeth can you have on a bridge?
The number of teeth a dental bridge can support will depend on the strength and health of the abutment teeth and the overall dental arch. A dental bridge can often replace one to three missing teeth in a row. However, in some cases, a longer bridge may be possible. Your dentist will assess your situation and recommend the best option for replacing your missing teeth. Lastly, keep in mind that supporting too many teeth on a bridge may put excessive strain on the abutment teeth. This can lead to potential complications.
Receive Dental Bridges Today
Do you want to replace your missing teeth for a fuller and more balanced smile?
Call our Lancaster, CA dentist office at (661) 948-6700 or schedule a dental visit to our Lancaster dentist office online.
Call our Palmdale, CA dentist office at (661) 273-6565 or schedule a visit to our Palmdale dentist office online.