If you are currently missing one or more teeth, or if you’re preparing for an upcoming extraction, Pro Smile Dental Care in San Ramon, CA, can help you consider if dental bridges are right for you. Replacing missing teeth is about more than looking good, it is essential for maintaining your oral health, so it’s important to visit a dentist to explore your options as soon as possible.
What Is A Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is one of the most cost-efficient ways to replace anywhere from 1-4 missing teeth. These implants can be made from durable, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting materials, including porcelain or ceramic, designed to look just like your natural teeth.
Top Signs You Might Need A Dental Bridge
- You previously had a tooth extracted without having it replaced.
- As a child, one of your baby teeth fell out, but an adult tooth never emerged to replace it.
- Your teeth are shifting out of place due to gaps between them.
- You notice a change in your bite even though you have not had any recent dental work done.
Why Dental Bridges Are So Important
Whether you are missing a tooth due to blunt force trauma, an extraction, or a genetic condition that caused you to be born missing some of your permanent teeth, the missing space between your other teeth can cause an array of problems if left untreated. For example, a gap can cause your other teeth to become misaligned, make it difficult to eat, lead to speech impediments, and increase your risk of tooth decay or other painful conditions.
Traditional Fixed Bridges
There are several different types of dental bridges, but the most common type is the fixed bridge. This is where the false tooth is attached to two crowns, cemented onto the two natural teeth adjacent to the bridge.
Cantilever Bridge
Another type of dental procedure is the cantilever bridge. This is where the replacement tooth is attached to only one crown, cemented onto a single natural tooth.
Maryland Bridge
Another type of dental procedure is the resin-bonded (or “Maryland”) bridge. This is similar to a traditional option in that it is connected to two teeth instead of one. However, rather than using crowns, the replacement tooth will be bonded to the two natural teeth with metal or porcelain wings on each side.
Implant-Supported Bridge
The final (and most complex) option is an implant-supported bridge. These are held in place by dental implants embedded directly into your jawbone, which makes them the strongest and sturdiest option.
What To Expect At Your Appointment
The first step in getting a dental bridge or other tooth replacement treatment is to visit your family dentist for an examination or consultation to determine which type of replacement tooth is best for you. Our dentist will take X-rays and impressions of your teeth to observe the unique structure of your mouth, and create custom-made crowns. Then, when the bridge is ready, we will perform a relatively simple procedure to place the crowns and the bridge.
What To Expect While Recovering
If you are getting a procedure that does not involve implants, you can expect mild pain and discomfort for the first two weeks, so it’s best to avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages. After that, it shouldn’t be too uncomfortable, so if your discomfort lasts longer than expected, or if you’re in a lot of pain, schedule a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.
A Gentle Family Dentist In The East Bay Area
A dental bridge can help to restore your smile and give you back the confidence to speak and eat properly. Schedule an appointment with the Pro Smile Dental Care family dentists in San Ramon today to explore your options to beautifully and comfortably replace missing teeth.
