Dental Bridges: An Effective Solution for Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can not only affect your appearance but also your oral health. Luckily, our highly qualified, San Diego, CA dentist, Dr. Vaheed Bayette, offers dental bridges. Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution to replace one or more missing teeth. Don’t let missing teeth affect your appearance and oral health. Discover how dental bridges can improve your smile and quality of life.
Contact our San Diego dental office by calling (619) 901-0708 to see if dental bridges are right for you.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that are used to replace missing teeth. They are made up of two or more crowns, which are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth or teeth in between. Bridges can be made of various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
Different Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, including:
- Traditional Dental Bridge: This is the most common type of dental bridge. It consists of one or more artificial teeth that are anchored to adjacent teeth using dental crowns.
- Cantilever Dental Bridge: This type of bridge is used when there’s only one adjacent tooth available to support the artificial tooth.
- Maryland Dental Bridge: This type of bridge is made of a metal or porcelain framework that’s bonded to the back of supporting teeth. Maryland bridges are typically used to replace front teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: This type of bridge is supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges are a more durable and long-lasting option and a more costly one.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer various benefits, including:
- Improved appearance: Dental bridges can restore your smile and give you a natural look.
- Better oral health: Missing teeth can lead to several oral health problems, but dental bridges can prevent them.
- Improved speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech, but dental bridges can help you speak more clearly.
- Improved eating: Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew properly, but dental bridges can help you eat a wider variety of foods.
Candidacy for Dental Bridges
Ideal candidates for dental bridges include:
- Individuals with one or more missing teeth
- Individuals with healthy teeth and gums
- Individuals who are committed to good oral hygiene
Dental Bridge Process
The process of getting a dental bridge typically requires two or three dental visits. During the first visit, your San Diego dentist will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of their enamel. This is necessary to make room for the crowns that will support the bridge. Impressions of the teeth will also be made to create a bridge that fits perfectly into the gap. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.
In the second visit, the bridge is placed and adjusted for a proper fit. Dr. Bayette will check the fit of the bridge and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is comfortable and functional. In some cases, a third visit may be necessary for final adjustments.
Once the dental bridge is in place, it will need to be cared for just like your natural teeth. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and visiting our San Diego dental office for routine checkups and cleanings. With proper care, a dental bridge can last for many years, helping to restore your smile and improve your oral health.
The Costs of a Dental Bridge
While the costs of your dental bridge will vary based on several factors, you can expect to spend between $2,000 and $5,000. Factors that will influence the total cost include:
- Geographical location
- Materials used
- The type of dental bridge (cantilever bridge, implant-supported bridge, traditional fixed bridge, Maryland dental bridge) needed
- Number of teeth that need to be replaced
- Dentist’s expertise and experience
- Dental insurance plan
- Additional procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
The dental bridge procedure usually requires two or three dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the teeth and take impressions. In the second visit, the bridge is placed and adjusted for a proper fit.
The cost of dental bridges can vary depending on various factors, such as the number of teeth being replaced, the material used, and the location of the dentist. Generally, dental bridges can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Unlike dentures, dental bridges are not removable. They are a fixed prosthetic device that is cemented onto the supporting teeth or implants.
To promote longevity of your dental bridge, you must follow good oral hygiene practices by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. You should also avoid hard and sticky foods and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Restore Your Smile and Oral Health with Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a great option for those who want to replace one or more missing teeth. They offer several benefits, including improved appearance, better oral health, and improved speech and eating. With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years. If you are considering dental bridges, schedule a consultation with your San Diego, CA dentist by calling (619) 901-0708 to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.