What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a restoration that we can make usually to replace one or more teeth that are missing in your mouth. It attaches to at least two, sometimes more, teeth on either side of a space in your mouth where a tooth is missing.
What's the difference between a bridge and dentures?
The biggest difference is that bridges tend to stay in your mouth. They are glued in and don't come out. On the other hand, a denture is made to come in and out of your mouth and can be full or partial.
What are the pros and cons of dental bridges?
One of the best pros of a dental bridge is that it allows you to have teeth when you didn't have teeth before. A major con about dental bridges is that sometimes it's hard to clean because now a couple of teeth are being connected together.
What are the different types of dental bridges?
The main differences in the different kinds of dental bridges that we make is the material. The most common materials are porcelain ceramic and metal, specifically gold or platinum.
What are the alternatives to a dental bridge?
One of the main alternatives to dental bridges is dental implants. The choice between these two options often depends on the patient's timeframe and personal needs.
What is a removable dental bridge versus a fixed dental bridge?
Fixed bridges are glued in and don't come out once placed. Removable dental bridges clip onto your existing teeth and have a false tooth in the middle.
What is a cantilever dental bridge?
A cantilever dental bridge is a bridge where there's only an anchor on one side. It's not as stable and can create more problems in terms of putting too much force on that one anchor tooth.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
The biggest benefit of a dental bridge is that it'll give you teeth where you didn't have teeth previously.
How can a dental bridge help those with gum disease?
Dental bridges can help stabilize teeth that have been made unstable due to gum disease.
Is dental bridge work painful?
Before we work on any of our patients, I will locally anesthetize the area before we start working on a tooth. The same thing is true for dental bridges. We also have other options for comfort, such as nitrous oxide or sedation.
What does the dental bridge placement procedure involve?
The procedure involves cleaning the teeth, shaping the anchor teeth, taking a mold or impression, making the restoration, placing a temporary bridge, and finally placing the permanent restoration.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A lot of it depends on the patient. I usually like to shoot for between five and ten years for a dental bridge to last.
How should I care for my dental bridge?
Maintain good oral hygiene, be aware of your diet, and be careful about what you eat.
When should I schedule an appointment for a dental bridge?
If you think that you are in need of having a space replaced or you think that a dental bridge could potentially be an option for you, please call our office as soon as possible.
Is that all the information you have about dental bridges?
Yes, I hope we've been able to answer some questions today about dental bridges. If you have any further questions or you're ready to take action, please call our office at (916) 848-2145. We're here to help.