For patients with missing teeth, dental bridges can be an effective way to restore proper function and aesthetic appeal to the mouth. Bridges improve the overall health of the jaw by preventing drifting of remaining teeth and changes in the bite. There is also less time and expense involved in the procedure when compared with other traditional options, such as dentures and dental implants.
How Dental Bridges Work
Although the concept of a dental bridge is almost as old as dentistry itself, there are many modern options to consider when it comes to materials, shape and placement. To secure a dental bridge in the mouth, Dr. Añonuevo attaches the ends to either crowns on natural teeth or dental implants that are implanted for the purpose.
Types of Bridges
The types most often attached to crowns are conventional or cantilever bridges. During the process of preparing your mouth for a conventional or cantilever bridge, your natural tooth will be slightly reshaped to accommodate the crown. By contrast, resin-bonded bridges, often used to replace missing front teeth, do not require any physical change to existing teeth. Patients can choose from a variety of resilient material for bridges, including metal, zirconia and composite material.
Dental Bridge Procedure Details
The first step in creating your customized bridge involves both advanced digital imaging and a traditional mouth tray. These images will provide the three-dimension blueprint a laboratory will use to fabricate your bridge. By biting into a mouth mold filled with a putty-like dental paste, you will provide an impression that will be used to create a model of your teeth, which is also invaluable in creating a bridge that will fit in your mouth securely and comfortably.
While you wait for the laboratory to build your bridge, you will wear a temporary bridge to fill spaces in your mouth and allow you to become accustomed to wearing a dental appliance. The next step is important in ensuring your complete satisfaction with the process: Dr. Añonuevo focuses on the fit and function of your bridge, making sure it is comfortable and secure, and that you are absolutely satisfied with the customization.
Combining with Crowns or Implants
Bridges are appropriate for a variety of cases, from a single gap to many missing teeth. Attached to the bridge are the natural-looking fabricated teeth that will fill gaps and add appeal to your smile.
If your bridge will be attached to crowns on adjacent teeth, Dr. Añonuevo will closely examine these teeth, as well as nearby gums, to determine if they are healthy enough to provide stability for the bridge. Any cavities will be filled, and any indication of gum disease will also require periodontal treatment.
If your bridge will be secured by dental implants, strong titanium posts will be implanted in the jaw to provide an anchor. In addition to their role of providing stability to your bridge, these titanium “roots” are topped with a false tooth to fill a gap with a natural-looking replacement.
If you would like to discuss your specific dental needs with a respected, trustworthy dentist in Charlotte, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Añonuevo. Please call or email Inspire Dentistry of the Carolinas today to make your appointment.
