Losing teeth can be a difficult experience, not just emotionally but also practically. When you lose teeth, it can be difficult to eat and speak properly. It can also affect your appearance and confidence. Dental bridges can replace missing teeth and restore your smile.
Do You Have Missing Teeth?
If you have missing teeth, you may be self-conscious about your smile and avoid social situations. You may also have trouble eating and speaking. But there’s no reason to hide your smile or feel embarrassed. There are dental solutions that can give you back your confident smile. Scripps-affiliated dentist Dr. Roya Mirkhan evaluates your teeth and concerns to curate a personalized, creative solution to your problem, and dental bridges in San Diego may just be the solution you need!
What are Bridges?
Dental bridges are a type of dental prosthetic used to replace one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap between two adjacent teeth. The two adjacent teeth support the dental bridge, usually made of porcelain or ceramic. In terms of function, dental bridges can restore the ability to chew and speak properly and maintain the shape of your face. Unlike dentures, dental bridges are not removable — once cemented, they stay.
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
- Restore the perfect smile
- Replace the missing teeth
- Restore your ability to chew and speak
- Prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Improve the distribution of bite force
- Minimally invasive solution to missing teeth
The Dental Bridge Process
During your consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine if dental bridges are the best solution for you, determine the best type of dental bridges in San Diego, and plan the placement of the artificial tooth. After the initial consultation, if your dentist recommends a traditional or cantilever bridge, they will prepare the tooth on either side of the empty space by removing some of the enamel. This will make room for the dental crowns that will be used to anchor the bridge in place.
Next, your dentist will take an impression, or mold, of your teeth and gum line, which will be used to create your custom dental bridge. While your dental bridge is being created, you will be fitted with a temporary bridge to wear. Once your custom dental bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it fitted and cemented into place. The dentist will ensure the permanent bridge fits comfortably, following which they will cement the bridge in place.
You may experience some sensitivity after getting a dental bridge, but this should go away within a few days. Taking over-the-counter pain medication can help with the discomfort. Dental bridges in San Diego usually last 10 to 15 years, but you can make them last even longer with proper care and maintenance.
Types of Dental Bridges:
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type of bridge. It is made up of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or pontic) in between. The crowns are attached to the pontic with metal wings or clasps. The pontics are made from tooth-colored materials, like porcelain, so they look natural.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever dental bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but only has one crown. The crown is placed on the tooth next to the gap, with the pontic attached to the crown with metal wings or clasps. Cantilever bridges are not as strong as traditional bridges, so they are not used as often. But cantilever bridges may be necessary if the patient only has one abutment tooth.
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland-bonded dental bridge is a newer type of dental bridge in San Diego. It consists of a metal framework with pontics attached — the metal framework is bonded to the back of the existing teeth. The advantage of a Maryland dental bridge is that the surrounding abutment teeth don’t have to be filed down, but this type of restoration is also weaker than a traditional bridge.
Why Choose Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center?
Advanced Dentistry & Implant Center is a state-of-the-art cosmetic, periodontal, and dental implant specialty practice committed to helping you achieve the perfect smile. Our dental professionals and clinicians use cutting-edge technologies and techniques to replace your missing teeth, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable through every stage of the dental bridge process. Please schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentist to explore your dental bridge or teeth straightening options in San Diego.
