Teeth are made to work together, so having a missing tooth is a serious matter. When a tooth is missing, a bone may shrink and change the way your jawbone supports your lips and cheeks. Over time, this can make your face look older. Also when there is a missing tooth, the nearby teeth may drift or tilt into the empty space. This can cause more stress on your jaw joints and teeth, and it can cause pain. This can be solved with the implementation of a dental bridge. A bridge can restore your smile, give you the ability to properly speak and chew, prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position, and maintain the shape of your face.

The Durability of Dental Bridges

With good oral hygiene and regular professional cleaning, dental bridges can five to 15 years. It is important to keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong. The success of the bridge depends on how well you take care of your teeth! Brushing twice a day and flossing daily helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Make sure you have regular dental visits and that the dentist shows you how to brush and floss correctly. Also, eat a healthy diet! Fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc.

Types of Dental Bridges Available

There are three different types of bridges.

The “Traditional” Fixed Bridge:
This consists of two or more crowns and also a filler tooth or teeth. The filler teeth are attached to one or more crowns. The crowns keep the bridge in place. This bridge is made out of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.

Cantilever Bridges:
Cantilever bridges are used when there are teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth (there are no teeth next to the other side of the missing tooth or teeth).

Maryland Bonded Bridges:
This type of bridge is commonly used to replace the front teeth. They are made of porcelain fused to metal teeth supported by a metal framework. Metal wings on each side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth. This type of bridge is commonly used to replace front teeth.

The Process

Getting a bridge done usually requires two or more visits. During the first visit, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to make room for the crown. Next, an impression of your teeth is made, and it will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. Your dentist will make a temporary bridge for you to wear to protect your exposed teeth while your bridge is being made. At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally, your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

To learn more about dental bridges in San Juan Capistrano, California, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Mojgan Niktash, please contact Paradise Dental Practice at 949-481-2121.