Dental Bridges 101: All You Need to Know Before Getting Them

Missing teeth affect only your smile and also dental structure. The jawbone needs stimulation from the teeth. However, when your permanent teeth are removed, they leave unsightly gaps and gums exposed. Without the presence of the teeth, the alveolar bone begins to deteriorate. Furthermore, the surrounding teeth will shift to the available spaces, which further weakens the bone. Having your teeth replaced can improve your smile as well as preserve your dental integrity.

Fortunately, we have several dental treatments to help you restore your teeth, such as dental bridges in Sunset Hills, MO.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are false teeth that are cemented onto the existing teeth or implants to close the gaps. These fixtures are made of two crowns that anchor the false teeth. For the dental bridges to be fixed, your surrounding teeth need to be healthy.

We have several types of dental bridges that you can choose from:

• Traditional bridges. These are the commonly used bridges and are made of two crowns fixed on adjacent teeth. These bridges are either made of ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal.
• Cantilever bridges. They are similar to the traditional ones, but instead of two teeth, the bridge is supported by one. These bridges are not strong and are only ideal for the front teeth.
• Maryland bridges. These bridges also use two teeth for support. However, instead of the dental crowns, the bridge uses a metal or porcelain framework to anchor the false teeth.

There is also the implant-supported bridges that use implants. These metal screws are surgically fixed in the jawbone. You will need several dental visits for the implants to be fixed. Consult our cosmetic dentistry in Sunset Hills, MO, for more information about the types of bridges and their benefits.

Why Get a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges offer several benefits:

• The process of fixing the bridges is not time-consuming or invasive compared to the implants.
• It restores your smile and maintains your facial structure
• It preserves your dental integrity by preventing the teeth from shifting
• The bridges distribute the bite pressure evenly

How Are the Bridges Fixed?

Fixing the dental bridge requires at least two dental visits, and the process involves a few steps:

• Diagnosing and planning

The dentist will first do a comprehensive dental assessment to check if there is any bone loss and also discuss the different types of bridges.

We will also discuss the treatment procedure, what to expect during and after the bridges are fixed.

• Preparation

The teeth need reshaping before the bridges are fixed. Our dentist in 63127 will trim off part of your enamel to make room for the dental crowns. This process is irreversible and the primary disadvantage of the traditional bridges.

The dentist will take a mold of your teeth to make the permanent bridges. The process of making the bridges take about three weeks, so as you wait, the dentist will fix a temporary bridge to protect your teeth.

• Fixing of the bridges

On your second dental visit, the temporary bridges are removed and replaced with permanent ones. You may need an additional dental visit to check the fit of the bridges.

After the bridges are fixed, you may feel pressure and mild irritation. Also, your speech may be affected in the first few days. These problems will clear as your gums and tongue get used to the bridges.

How Long Do the Bridges Last?

Dental bridges are durable and can last between 10 and 15 years with proper care. There are no special dental instructions for taking care of the bridges, other than your standard hygiene practices.

Though the bridges do not affect your eating habits, it vital to limit the consumption of red wine, coffee, tea, or brush your teeth when you take them. These beverages can stain your bridges, causing them to discolor. Once they stain, you need to have the bridges replaced because the shade cannot be altered.

Finally, visit My STL Dentist in Sunset Hills for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months.