Are you struggling with missing teeth and seeking a reliable solution to restore your smile’s functionality and aesthetics? Look no further than Rainier Ave Dental in South Seattle, WA. Our experienced team specializes in providing high-quality dental bridges tailored to meet your unique dental needs.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges serve as a solution to replace missing teeth, whether it’s a single tooth or a series of missing teeth. Essentially, they act as a bridge, filling the gap in your smile. Custom bridges can be crafted by dentists to seamlessly match the shade of your natural teeth.
Components of Dental Bridges
- Abutments: These are the supportive structures for your dental bridge. While they typically refer to natural teeth, they can also include small connector posts in bridges supported by dental implants.
- Pontics: These are the artificial or false teeth that occupy the space left by missing teeth.
Depending on your specific dental needs and the type of bridge recommended by your dentist, your bridge may include one or more abutments and one or more pontics.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dentists employ various types of bridges to address diverse oral health objectives. The four primary classifications of dental bridges encompass:
Traditional Dental Bridge
The most prevalent type of dental bridge is the traditional dental bridge. It involves dental crowns, also known as caps, positioned on both ends with artificial teeth, called pontics, in the middle. Your dentist affixes these crowns to your natural teeth, known as abutments, which flank the gap. The artificial teeth, or pontics, are then placed to fill in the space between them. This method is commonly employed when the patient possesses healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever bridge resembles a traditional bridge, with a crucial distinction: it features a crown on only one end rather than both. Consequently, when your dentist affixes the bridge onto your abutment tooth, the artificial tooth (pontic) extends across the gap, essentially “hanging over.” Dentists opt for cantilever bridges in cases where natural teeth are present only on one side of the gap. However, it’s important to note that due to their design, cantilever bridges typically lack the same level of strength as traditional bridges.
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland bridge, also known as a resin-bonded bridge, employs metal wings in lieu of crowns to anchor the bridge. These metal wings are bonded by a dentist to the rear surfaces of adjacent teeth, providing support for the bridge. Typically, Maryland bridges are utilized for the replacement of front teeth. It’s important to note that these bridges may not be sufficiently robust to withstand the chewing forces exerted on rear teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge resembles a traditional bridge, but it sits atop dental implants rather than natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that serve as substitutes for missing tooth roots. Before affixing a bridge to dental implants, it’s crucial for the implants to fully integrate, or fuse, with the jawbone. Typically, this integration process takes around three to six months on average, though the duration may vary based on individual circumstances. Implant-supported bridges are a viable option for individuals with three or more consecutive missing teeth, providing a stable and durable solution for restoring dental function and aesthetics.
Am I the Right Candidate for Dental Bridges?
When you experience the loss of one or more teeth, it can impact various aspects of your life. Opting for a dental bridge can effectively address these changes by:
- Restoring your smile’s appearance
- Restoring the ability to chew food properly
- Restoring clear and precise speech
- Maintaining the natural shape of your face
- Realigning your bite to evenly distribute chewing pressure
- Preventing the shifting of remaining teeth out of their correct positions
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Missing teeth can impact more than just your smile. They can also affect your speech, chewing, and even the alignment of your remaining teeth. Dental bridges offer a versatile and effective solution to these problems.
- Improved aesthetics: Bridges fill gaps in your smile, giving you a more confident and attractive appearance.
- Enhanced speech: Missing teeth can make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds. Bridges restore clear and natural speech.
- Restored chewing function: Chewing is essential for digestion. Bridges allow you to eat comfortably and properly.
- Prevented tooth shifting: When teeth are missing, the surrounding teeth may shift out of place. Bridges help maintain proper alignment.
- Balanced bite: A balanced bite is crucial for jaw health and preventing future dental problems. Bridges ensure your bite remains in harmony.
What to Expect During Dental Bridges Procedure?
The placement of a dental bridge at Rainier Ave Dental typically involves a series of appointments to ensure a seamless and effective restoration. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: During your initial visit, our expert team will review your dental history and conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. We will also take X-rays to assess the condition of your oral health and determine if a dental bridge is the most suitable treatment for you. We will discuss the different types of dental bridges available, address any questions you may have, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
- Tooth Preparation: Once you decide to proceed with the dental bridge, we will prepare the adjacent teeth that will support the bridge. This involves removing a small amount of enamel to create space for the crowns that will anchor the bridge. Local anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while your permanent bridge is being fabricated.
- Impressions and Temporary Bridge: After preparing the supporting teeth, we will take precise impressions of your teeth and bite. These impressions are used to create a custom dental bridge that matches your natural teeth. In the meantime, a temporary bridge will be fitted to maintain aesthetics and protect your teeth.
- Bridge Placement: Once your permanent bridge is ready, you will return to our clinic for its placement. Our dentist will carefully position the bridge, ensuring it fits comfortably and securely. We will make any necessary adjustments to achieve the best possible fit and function.
- Follow-Up Care: After your dental bridge is placed, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular follow-up appointments. These visits allow us to monitor the condition of your bridge and overall oral health, ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your restoration.
Dental Bridges in South Seattle, WA
Unlock the Radiance of Your Smile with Premium Dental Bridges in South Seattle, WA, at Rainier Ave Dental. Embark on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile today. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!
FAQs
How long does it take to recover after a dental bridge procedure?
Recovery times vary from person to person and depend on several factors. On average, it takes one to two weeks for your teeth and gums to heal. But it can take a little longer for your new dental bridge to feel totally natural and comfortable.
How long does a dental bridge last?
On average, the lifespan of a dental bridge is five to 15 years. Some can last even longer with proper care and maintenance. You may hear dentists call these “permanent bridges.” They’re permanent in the sense that only a dentist can remove them. But they don’t last forever. You’ll still need to replace them when they show signs of wear or damage.
How can I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. To keep your bridge in good condition:
- Brush and floss daily.
- Use a nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean underneath your bridge every day using floss threaders or interproximal brushes (tiny brushes made to go between your teeth).
- Avoid extremely hard or chewy foods.
- Don’t chew on ice, pens, pencils or your fingernails.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.