Dental Bridges in Columbia, MO
If you have recently lost a tooth (or more) due to decay, accidental causes, or medication, you may be thinking about your options. While a missing tooth can cause unsightly gaps in your dental arch, they can cause much more than just cosmetic problems: Two or more missing teeth can cause trouble with chewing and biting and also with speaking. In addition, you could also experience discomfort in your jaw, pain while chewing, or unpleasant changes to your bite. One of the most popular solutions to replace missing teeth is to get a dental bridge placed in your mouth. In case you haven’t had a dental bridge fitted before, it pays to know what to expect and understand the procedure involved.
At our dentistry, we offer a comprehensive range of dental restorations, including veneers, bridges, crowns, and dentures. Feel free to drop in and ask for more information.
Types of Dental Bridges At All American Dental
Leaving gaps in your dental arch could shake other teeth lose and put unnecessary strain on them while biting or chewing. Dental bridges act as a replacement for the missing teeth, and they fill not only the gap but also restore the function of the missing tooth.
There are mainly four main types of dental bridges, and your dentist will help evaluate the right one for your unique requirement.
Traditional Dental Bridge is the most common type and consists of a set of artificial teeth with crowns. This is cemented to the teeth that are adjacent to the missing tooth.
Cantilever bridges are supported only on one side and are typically used if the patient has only one tooth next to the missing tooth.
Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework to hold the bridge in place.
Implant-supported bridges utilize dental implants. It is usually possible to replace many missing teeth with 2-3 implants. It is also possible to replace an entire arch of teeth with dental implants!
Contact All American Dental today and make an appointment with us at your preferred convenience. Our dental bridges Columbia dental team trained and qualified that will help you every step of the way.
FAQs
A dental bridge refers to a prosthetic device used to fill in the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth held in proper place by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth. A bridge restores your smile, improves your ability to chew, and prevents other teeth from shifting out of alignment. If you have a lost tooth or teeth, a dental bridge can help restore both function and appearance.
Dental bridges work by using crowns on the adjacent teeth to fix a false tooth (or teeth) in the gap. The bridge is cemented in place, effectively “bridging” the gap left by missing teeth. This restoration improves your ability to chew and speak properly, prevents remaining teeth from shifting, and restores the appearance of your smile. Bridges are customized to fit your mouth and blend with your natural teeth.
There are varied types of dental bridges, including traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges. Traditional bridges are quite common and involve crowns on both sides of the lost tooth. Cantilever bridges are utilized when only one adjacent tooth is available. Maryland bridges make use of a metal or porcelain framework to bond to the adjacent teeth. Implant-supported bridges are tied by dental implants, providing a more secure and permanent solution.
Dental bridges, on average, last between 10 to 15 years with proper care. The life depends on factors like the materials used, your oral hygiene, and regular dental visits. Bridges can last longer with proper maintenance, including brushing and flossing around the bridge, as well as avoiding habits that could damage it, like chewing hard foods or grinding your teeth.
Getting a dental bridge is usually not painful. The procedure typically includes numbing the area around the adjacent teeth with local anesthesia. While there may be some mild discomfort after the procedure as your gums adjust, the process itself is generally well-tolerated. Your dentist will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the treatment, and any discomfort can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
The whole process of getting a dental bridge generally takes two visits. During the very first visit, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth by taking out some enamel and taking impressions. These impressions are then used to make a custom bridge. In the second visit, the bridge is properly fitted and cemented into place. The entire process may take about 2 to 3 weeks, including the time for the bridge to be made.
Dental bridges can be prepared from multiple materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys. Porcelain and ceramic are often used because they blend well with natural teeth, providing a more aesthetic appearance. Metal alloys are more durable and are sometimes used in the crowns of the bridge, especially for back teeth where strength is crucial. Your dentist will select the best material on the basis of your needs and preferences.
Yes, a dental bridge can replace more than one missing tooth. In fact, bridges can be made to replace several teeth in a row, depending on the size of the gap and the strength of the surrounding teeth. Larger bridges may require additional support, such as implants, to ensure they stay securely in place and function properly over time.
Caring nicely for your dental bridge involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing minimum twice a day and flossing around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup. Your dentist may recommend special flossers or tools to clean underneath the bridge. Avoid chewing too hard foods or using your teeth as tools, and follow regular dental check-ups to make make sure your bridge remains in good condition.
With a dental bridge, you can eat most foods, but it’s important to avoid hard, too sticky, or chewy foods that might potentially damage or dislodge the bridge. Cutting food into some smaller pieces and chewing on both sides of your mouth may also help protect the bridge. It’s also advisable to avoid biting into very hard items, like ice or nuts, to prevent putting excessive pressure on the bridge.
A dental bridge preserves the function and appearance of your smile by filling the gap caused by missing teeth. It improves your power to chew, speak, and smile naturally. Bridges also help prevent remaining teeth from shifting and maintain the alignment of your bite. Additionally, bridges can support facial structure and prevent jawbone deterioration that can occur after losing teeth.
Yes, a dental bridge can be substituted if it wears out or gets damaged. Over time, bridges can become loose, crack, or show signs of wear. If this happens, your dentist will evaluate the bridge and recommend replacing it with a new one. Regular dental visits and great care can help extend the lifespan of the bridge and catch any issues early.
While dental bridges are a long-lasting solution, they are not considered permanent. With nice care, they may last 10 to 15 years, but they may eventually need to be substituted due to wear or damage. Dental implants offer way more permanent solution as they fuse with the bone, but a bridge remains an effective and reliable option for replacing missing teeth.