Missing teeth can significantly impact your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. At Heritage Dental Centre in Edmonton, we offer dental bridges as an effective solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. This guide will help you understand what dental bridges are, the types available, the procedure involved, and the benefits they offer.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap between two teeth. Bridges are anchored in place by your natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. The false teeth, or pontics, fill the space in between. Dental bridges not only restore the appearance of your smile but also improve your ability to chew and speak properly.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. The choice of bridge depends on the location of the missing teeth, the health of the surrounding teeth, and your specific requirements.
- Traditional Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridges are the most common type and consist of one or more pontics held in place by dental crowns on the abutment teeth. These bridges are strong and durable, making them suitable for replacing molars where chewing forces are high.
- Cantilever Bridges
- Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one abutment tooth next to the gap. This type of bridge is less common and is typically used in areas of the mouth that do not experience heavy chewing pressure.
- Maryland Bridges
- Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the abutment teeth. This type of bridge is less invasive as it doesn’t require the extensive reshaping of the adjacent teeth. Maryland bridges are usually used to replace front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges
- Implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth. This type of bridge is ideal for patients who have multiple missing teeth and offers superior stability and longevity. Implant-supported bridges require a surgical procedure to place the implants, followed by a period of healing before the bridge can be attached.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge typically involves multiple visits to Heritage Dental Centre. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the process:
- Initial Consultation and Evaluation
- During your first visit, our dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth, including X-rays, to assess the health of your teeth and gums. This evaluation helps determine the best type of bridge for your needs.
- Preparation of Abutment Teeth
- If a traditional or cantilever bridge is recommended, the abutment teeth need to be prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crowns. This step ensures that the crowns will fit properly and securely over the abutment teeth.
- Impressions and Temporary Bridge
- After the abutment teeth are prepared, an impression of your teeth is taken to create a precise model for the dental laboratory. This model is used to fabricate your custom bridge. In the meantime, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain the appearance of your smile.
- Fitting and Adjustment
- Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to Heritage Dental Centre for fitting. Our dentist will carefully place the bridge and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and proper bite alignment. The bridge is then permanently cemented in place.
- Follow-Up Visits
- After the bridge is placed, follow-up visits may be scheduled to check the fit and function of the bridge and to ensure that your gums and surrounding teeth are healthy.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous benefits, making them a popular choice for replacing missing teeth:
- Restored Smile and Confidence
- Dental bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth, restoring the natural appearance of your smile and boosting your self-confidence.
- Improved Chewing and Speaking
- Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly and may affect your speech. Dental bridges restore your ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly.
- Maintained Facial Structure
- Missing teeth can lead to bone loss and changes in facial structure over time. Dental bridges help maintain the shape of your face by providing support to the surrounding teeth and jawbone.
- Prevented Teeth Shifting
- When a tooth is missing, the adjacent teeth may shift out of position, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Dental bridges prevent this by keeping your remaining teeth in their proper place.
- Long-Lasting Solution
- With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, providing a durable and reliable solution for missing teeth.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge. Here are some tips to keep your bridge in good condition:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. Use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean under the bridge and around the abutment teeth.
- Regular Dental Check-ups
- Visit Heritage Dental Centre regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Our dentists will monitor the condition of your bridge and address any issues promptly.
- Healthy Diet
- Avoid sticky and hard foods that can damage your bridge. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support your overall oral health.
- Protect Against Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices and visit our dentists regularly to prevent decay and gum disease, which can affect the longevity of your bridge.
At Heritage Dental Centre, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. If you’re considering a dental bridge or have any questions about the procedure, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and expert advice to ensure your dental health is in the best possible hands.
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