Are you missing multiple permanent teeth or a single tooth? Wayne Family Dentistry offers restorative dentistry treatments to replace your missing teeth including a dental bridge in Wayne, PA. A dental bridge is a prosthetic dental restoration that your dentist can anchor in place to adjacent teeth or dental implants. It is a single until prosthesis that consists of pontics, which are the false teeth, and dental crowns. The crowns are located on each end and will be anchored to the adjacent teeth or implant fixtures. The bridge will close the gap created by your missing teeth. This is a popular dental treatment that will restore the functionality of your mouth, prevent misalignment, and fill in the gaps in your smile.
We Offer Several Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges available to meet the varying needs of our patients. Although a traditional dental bridge offers a quick treatment for tooth loss, we will suggest using an implant-secured dental bridge for multiple missing teeth. For patients missing a single tooth, we also offer implant supported crowns. Here, we review the different types of dental bridges we offer:
- Traditional Fixed Bridge: A traditional bridge is a common dental restoration dentist use to replace one tooth as well as several consecutive missing teeth. It is made up of a pontic that will replace the tooth and is held in place with dental crowns. The crowns are cemented to adjacent, remaining teeth that will need to be prepared.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: For patients that qualify, we will suggest using dental implants to anchor the dental bridge in place. An implant-supported bridge is for patients who have several consecutive missing teeth. The bridge is made up of several pontics that will fill in the gaps and the dental crowns. The crowns will be secured to the dental implants instead of healthy, remaining teeth.
- Cantilever Bridge: Similar to a traditional fixed bridge, a cantilever bridge will rely on traditional teeth to secure it in place. However, it is for patients who only have one healthy tooth available. Since it is only secured to a single tooth, it is less stable than a traditional fixed bridge.
- Resin-Bonded Bridge: Called a Maryland dental bridge, this dental restoration is primarily used to replace front teeth. It involves bonding one pontic to adjacent teeth with metal or porcelain wings. It is a less invasive option but may not be as durable.
Traditional Fixed Bridge vs Implant-Secured Dental Bridge
Fixed dental bridges are false teeth that are secured by natural abutment teeth. This type of dental bridge is supported by dental crown-capped natural teeth. However, traditional fixed bridges do not fully support the bite. Patients with traditional bridges may have dietary restrictions as it may be difficult to eat hard or chewy foods.
Implant-secured dental bridges last longer and support patients’ oral health. Dental implants are titanium screws that are surgically inserted into the bone tissue. They fully replace missing teeth and make sure that bridge prosthetics are secure. With implant bridges, patients are able to bite, chew, and even speak with renewed confidence. They help avoid bone loss in the jaw, a common side effect with tooth loss. A fixed dental bridge cannot prevent bone loss.
Treatment with Implant-Secured Dental Bridges
Before treatment, we will need to make sure that patients have enough bone tissue to support their dental implants. If needed, we may recommend bone grafting services. Bone grafting takes bone tissue from a different part of the mouth and places it where it is required. Then, to make sure that the dental bridges are secure and healthy, we can also provide gum disease treatment.
We will take digital impressions to create the bridge prosthetic. Then, our oral surgeon will place the dental implants in key areas of the mouth to support the bridge. Once the implants have healed, we will place the permanent dental bridge.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
To ensure that your dental bridge lasts a long time and functions correctly, you must take proper care of it. Surprisingly, caring for your bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. We recommend doing the following:
- Brush your Teeth Daily: You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day, if not more. You should use a soft bristle toothbrush and a nonabrasive toothpaste to keep plaque from accumulating.
- Floss Daily: Flossing between your teeth and around the dental bridge is important for gum health. This includes flossing under the dental bridge to remove food and debris can get stuck there. You can use interdental brushes or other special dental tools to accomplish this.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental visits are very important. At your dentist appointments, your dentist professionally clean your teeth and examine your dental bridge to make sure it is functioning properly. If there are any issues, we can address them promptly.
- Consume a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet will help promote overall health. This is very important to supporting your oral health. You should limit sugary and acidic foods, as they can damage both natural teeth and the bridge.
- Avoid habits that will damage the bridge: Certain bad habits may cause you to damage your dental restoration. Things such as biting your nails, chewing on hard things like ice or popcorn kernels, and using your teeth as tools can break your dental bridge. This will lead to costly repairs.
Dental Bridge FAQs
If you need a dental bridge, you most likely have many questions. We hope the following list of frequently asked questions about dental bridges help answer them. We want to provide you with all the information you need to prepare you for treatment. Contact our office if you have further concerns.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth. It uses adjacent teeth to support the prosthesis. We can also secure the brige with dental implants. A bridge has crowns that attach to the adjacent teeth and false teeth called pontics.
Who needs a dental bridge?
If you have failing or missing teeth and want to restore your smile, you may need a dental bridge. A custom bridge will help you chew and speak better and keep your other teeth from shifting. We use this common dental restoration to restore smiles.
How long will my dental bridge last?
With proper care, your new dental bridge will last 5 to 15 years or even longer. However, making it last will require constant care, regular dental checkups, and good oral hygiene.
How do I care for my new bridge?
Brush and floss your teeth every day. Use a special floss threader to clean under the bridge. Regular dental checkups will help keep your bridge in good shape.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
The dental bridge process usually involves some discomfort, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will numb the area around the teeth to keep you comfortable. We suggest using over-the-counter pain medication to help with any soreness afterward.
Can I eat a normal diet after I get a dental bridge?
Yes, you will be able to eat a normal diet once you get a bridge. However, we suggest avoiding food and candy that is very hard or sticky. These types of things can damage the bridge. We can supply you with a list of foods to avoid to help your bridge last as long as possible.
How long does the dental bridge procedure take?
Getting a custom dental bridge usually takes two or three visits to our dental office. The first visit involves preparing your teeth and taking impressions. The second visit involves fitting and placing the bridge. Each visit will last between 1-2 hours.
Will my dental bridge look natural?
Yes, modern dental bridges look very natural. We will color-match the bridge to blend in with your surrounding teeth. No one will even notice your bridge when you smile or speak.
Can a dental bridge improve my speech?
Yes, a dental bridge can help improve your speech. Missing teeth can cause speech problems, and a bridge can help you speak more clearly.
What happens if I don’t replace my missing teeth?
Not replacing missing teeth can cause your other teeth to shift, leading to bite problems and jaw pain. It can also make it harder to chew and speak properly. A dental bridge is a great solution that will replace your teeth and solve these issues.
Can I get a dental bridge if I have gum disease?
Getting a dental bridge with gum disease is possible. However, we will need to treat your gum disease first. Making sure you have healthy gums is a vital step for the success of a dental bridge. Your dentist will look at your teeth and gums first, making sure they are healthy enough for you to get a bridge. Addressing the gum disease is crucial for the long-term success of the restoration.
Are there alternatives to dental bridges?
We do offer a few alternatives to dental bridges that will also replace missing teeth. The most popular one are dental implants, which are titanium posts fused to the jawbone. This dental tool will secure a custom dental crown, bridge, or denture. We also offer traditional dentures. Each type of dental restoration has pros and cons that we will discuss during your consultation.
How do I know if a dental bridge is right for me?
The only way to know if a dental bridge is the treatment for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They will examine your teeth and gums and discuss your options. Together, you can decide if a dental bridge is the best choice for your smile.
Schedule an Appointment for a Dental Bridge in Wayne, PA
Do you want a fuller, healthier smile? Are you interested in restoring your smile with a dental bridge in Wayne, PA? Call today to schedule your restorative dentistry consultation with your dentist. You can reach us at 610-347-5133 or request an appointment online by filling out the form.