Everything to Know About Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, anchored by dental crowns placed on the natural teeth adjacent to the gap. At Smile City Dental Group, the dental bridge is designed to "bridge" the gap created by missing teeth, restoring the smile's aesthetics, functionality, and alignment. It helps prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting out of position and maintains the proper bite. Regular follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the fit and function of the dental bridge. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential for maintaining the longevity and health of the bridge.

The Process of Getting a Dental Bridge

The natural teeth adjacent to the gap are prepared to accommodate the dental crowns supporting the bridge. This involves removing a portion of the tooth structure to make room for the crown. An impression or digital scan of the prepared teeth is taken to create an accurate dental arch replica. This impression serves as a guide for fabricating the custom dental bridge in a dental laboratory. The dental laboratory fabricates the custom bridge using impressions or digital scans. The bridge is created to match the shape, size, and color of the patient's natural teeth, ensuring a natural-looking result.

While the permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain aesthetics and functionality during the waiting period. Once the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge is carefully placed and adjusted. The dentist ensures accurate fit, alignment, and bite before permanently cementing the bridge onto the prepared teeth.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Restored Functionality

Dental bridges fill the gap created by missing teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak with improved efficiency and comfort. They restore the natural function of the teeth, enabling you to enjoy a wide variety of foods and maintain proper speech patterns.

Aesthetics and Smile Enhancement

Dental bridges are custom-made to match your natural teeth' color, shape, and size. By filling in the gaps, bridges restore the aesthetics of your smile, improving your overall appearance and boosting self-confidence.

Improved Dental Alignment

When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may shift or rotate, leading to misalignment. Dental bridges prevent adjacent teeth from drifting out of position by maintaining proper spacing and alignment. This helps preserve the natural shape of your face and jaw.

Dental bridges can provide a durable, long-lasting solution that improves chewing ability, prevents teeth shifting, and enhances oral health and confidence. To learn more about dental bridges, visit Smile City Dental Group at 19366 Soledad Canyon Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91351, or call (661) 252-8888.