Dental Bridges
Restore Your Smile with Dental Bridges
At Sandgate Family Dental, we understand the impact that missing teeth can have on your smile and overall confidence. Dental bridges are a reliable solution to replace missing teeth, restore functionality, and enhance your oral health.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that span the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are anchored by surrounding teeth or dental implants, providing stability and support to restore your smile.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type, consisting of a false tooth (pontic) held in place by dental crowns on either side. They are typically made from porcelain or ceramic for a natural appearance.
- Cantilever Bridges: Used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the gap. A cantilever bridge is anchored to only one tooth, making it suitable in specific scenarios.
- Maryland Bridges: These involve a prosthetic tooth supported by a framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. It is a less invasive option compared to traditional bridges.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These provide even greater stability and durability. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and serve as anchors for the bridge, making them a long-term solution for multiple missing teeth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation at Sandgate Family Dental. Our experienced dentists will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and help you choose the best type of bridge for your needs.
Preparation
If you choose a traditional or cantilever bridge, the adjacent teeth will need to be prepared by shaping them to receive crowns. For implant-supported bridges, a dental implant will be placed in the bone to serve as the foundation for the bridge.
Impressions and Temporary Bridge
Once the preparation is complete, impressions of your teeth will be taken to create a custom bridge. A temporary bridge may be placed to protect your teeth while your permanent bridge is being made.
Placement of the Bridge
After your custom bridge is ready, you will return to our office for its placement. We will ensure a perfect fit and make any necessary adjustments. Once secured, your new bridge will restore your smile and functionality.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Restored Functionality: Bridges help you chew and speak comfortably, improving your overall quality of life.
- Natural Appearance: Custom-made to match your natural teeth, bridges enhance your smile without compromising aesthetics.
- Preventing Teeth Shifting: Filling the gap prevents surrounding teeth from shifting, helping maintain proper alignment.
- Enhanced Oral Health: Bridges support your facial structure, preventing bone loss and further dental issues.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Taking care of your dental bridge is essential for its longevity. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups at Sandgate Family Dental will help keep your bridge in excellent condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental bridges can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance. The longevity of your bridge largely depends on your oral hygiene practices, the type of materials used, and the stress on the bridge from chewing and grinding. Your Sandgate dentist will advise you on the best practices to ensure your bridge lasts as long as possible, including regular check-ups and cleanings at Sandgate Family Dental.
Absolutely! At Sandgate Family Dental, our custom dental bridges are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth, ensuring a natural appearance. Our skilled Sandgate dentists utilise high-quality materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. During your consultation, we will discuss your aesthetic preferences to create a bridge that enhances your smile.
Most patients experience little to no pain during the dental bridge procedure. Our team uses local anesthesia to ensure your comfort while the bridge is being placed. After the procedure, some discomfort may be experienced as your mouth heals, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. If you have concerns about pain or anxiety, consult with our Sandgate dentists during your consultation for tailored advice and options to ensure a comfortable experience.
Yes, once your dental bridge is securely in place, you should be able to eat normally. However, it is advisable to avoid very hard or sticky foods during the initial healing period to protect your bridge and surrounding teeth. Your Sandgate dentist will provide specific dietary recommendations tailored to your needs, ensuring that you can enjoy a varied diet without compromising the integrity of your dental bridge.
Caring for your dental bridge involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices similar to those for your natural teeth. This includes brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to prevent plaque build-up around the bridge and supporting teeth. Regular dental check-ups at Sandgate Family Dental are crucial, as our Sandgate dentists will monitor the condition of your bridge and surrounding teeth, making necessary adjustments or recommendations for care.
Failing to replace missing teeth can lead to a range of dental issues, including shifting of the remaining teeth, bite misalignment, and bone loss in the jaw. Over time, this can affect your overall oral health and lead to more complex dental problems. Consulting with a qualified Sandgate dentist is essential to discuss options like dental bridges to restore function and prevent these complications.
Like any dental procedure, there are some risks involved with getting a dental bridge. Potential complications may include the risk of infection, allergic reactions to materials used, or issues with the underlying teeth. Our experienced dentists in Sandgate will provide thorough evaluations and considerations based on your specific dental health, ensuring any risks are mitigated.
Initially, you may notice a slight adjustment in your speech after getting a dental bridge. However, most patients adapt quickly, and speech typically returns to normal within a few days. If you experience ongoing issues, please contact your Sandgate dentist for guidance and potential adjustments to your bridge.
Book Your Dental Bridge Consultation
Ready to restore your smile with a dental bridge? Contact Sandgate Family Dental today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal dental health.