What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges for teeth do exactly what their name indicates. A dental bridge is a prosthetic solution that bridges the gap in your teeth by replacing the missing teeth with artificial ones (called pontics) and anchoring them between the adjacent natural ones or dental implants.
Dental bridges will restore oral functionality and enhance oral aesthetics. Your orthodontist at Atherton Smiles will custom-craft your dental bridge to match your natural teeth.
What is the process of dental bridges at Atherton Smiles?
Dental bridges are usually made up of two parts:
- Abutments. These are the supporting structures of your dental bridge. They can either be your natural adjacent teeth or dental implant connector posts.
- Pontics. These are the artificial teeth used to fill in the gap left behind by missing teeth.
During your initial consultation with your dentist in Atherton, your situation will be assessed to check which type of bridge is needed.
Zirconia bridges
This type of bridge is the most commonly used one at Atherton Smiles. It involves CAD/CAM designs which are computer-generated. This process is then followed by the milling of the bridge. Zirconia dental bridges at Atherton Smiles require less preparation than other types of bridges and only a minimal adjacent tooth reduction to fit into the gap. It is made of the hardest material available and is considered sturdy, stable and unnoticeable.
Implant-supported bridge
As its name indicates, this type of bridge is similar to a traditional one, but it rests on dental implants and not on natural teeth. Your dentist in Atherton will make sure your implants are well integrated into your jawbone before beginning the dental bridge process. Learn more about implant-supported bridges here.
What is it like to visit us?
Here is what to expect when it comes to the dental bridge near me procedure:
- Initial consultation. Our team of dentists at Atherton Smiles will assess your oral health and discuss dental bridge costs and options.
- Preparation, impressions, and placement of a temporary bridge.
- Final fitting. Your custom bridge will be securely placed.
After the dental bridge procedure at our Atherton dental clinic, it is important to:
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Maintain regular oral hygiene
- Attend follow-up appointments with your dentist in Atherton for adjustments
When and why a patient might need a dental bridge in Atherton:
- Symptoms. The patient has missing teeth that impact their speech, chewing, or facial aesthetics.
- Timing. Bridges are recommended promptly by an Atherton dental professional to prevent dental issues like shifting or misalignment.
There are many benefits when it comes to dental bridges in Atherton. They include:
- Enhanced oral aesthetics
- Improved chewing and speech
- Prevention of tooth shifting
- Quick and non-invasive procedure
- Durability
- Boosted confidence
What is the difference between a dental bridge near me and a dental crown?
While dental bridges replace missing teeth, dental crowns cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth.
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