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What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetics designed to replace missing teeth by bridging the gap between two adjacent teeth. They consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, anchored to the neighboring natural teeth, which serve as support or abutment teeth. Dental bridges are a popular choice for individuals seeking a fixed and non-removable solution to tooth loss.
Types of Dental Bridges Available in Gages Lake, IL
Several types of dental bridges are available to suit various needs. The common types of dental bridges include:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type of dental bridges and consist of one or more pontics anchored to adjacent natural teeth.
- Cantilever Bridges: Suitable when only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap exists. The pontic is anchored to one abutment tooth.
- Maryland Bonded Bridges: These bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, making them a conservative option.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a highly stable and durable solution.
Dental Bridge Procedure in Gages Lake, IL
The dental bridge procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation: You'll meet with your dentist at Heather Ridge Dentistry to discuss your oral health and determine if dental bridges are the right option for you.
- Preparation: During the first appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate crowns that will support the bridge.
- Impressions: Precise impressions of your teeth are taken to create custom-fitted dental bridges.
- Temporary Bridge: While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, you may receive a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth.
- Placement: Once your permanent bridge is ready, it's carefully placed and adjusted for proper fit and comfort.
- Final Adjustments: Your dentist ensures that your new dental bridge fits seamlessly with your bite and looks natural.
Dental Bridges Vs. Dental Implants
While dental bridges are an excellent tooth replacement option, it's essential to consider dental implants as an alternative. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a long-lasting and highly stable foundation for crowns or bridges. Your dentist at Heather Ridge Dentistry can discuss both options and help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Benefits of Dental Bridge
Dental bridges offer several advantages, including:
- Restored Functionality: Bridges allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, just like with natural teeth.
- Improved Aesthetics: They fill gaps and enhance your smile's appearance.
- Prevent Shifting: Bridges prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap left by a missing tooth.
- Preserve Facial Structure: Restoring missing teeth helps maintain the shape and structure of your face.
Caring For Your Dental Bridge
Proper care for your dental bridge is essential for its longevity. Maintain your bridge by:
- Brushing and flossing regularly.
- Using a bridge threader or superfloss to clean underneath the pontic.
- Visiting Heather Ridge Dentistry for regular check-ups and cleanings.
The dental bridge procedure is typically not painful. Your dentist will ensure you're comfortable during the process. Any discomfort you may experience afterward can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last 10-15 years or even longer.
The dental bridge placement process typically requires two or more visits, with each appointment lasting about an hour.
The cost of dental bridges can vary depending on factors such as the type of bridge, materials used, and your location. During your consultation at Heather Ridge Dentistry, you will receive a personalized cost estimate.