Dental bridges are prosthetics used to fill in a gap for several missing or severely damaged teeth. At A-Z Dental Care, we offer both traditional bridges and implant-based bridges. Both options restore the appearance and function of natural teeth but in different manners. Patients seeking dental bridges in West Covina at our dental office will find that Dr. Salek and his team can find just the right type of teeth replacement for patients based on their unique situations.
Dental Bridge Uses
Much like other dental prosthetics, bridges fulfill a variety of both practical and cosmetic functions such as:
- Restoring a patient’s smile
- Normalizing one’s ability to chew and eat properly
- Preventing a patient’s remaining natural teeth from shifting out of place
- Maintaining jaw shape and bone density
- Restoring a patient’s pronunciation and speech
Placing Traditional Bridges
The most common choice for a dental bridge, traditional bridges make use of a type of artificial teeth, also known medically as pontics, and at least one dental crown to literally bridge a gap created by one or more missing teeth. To install a dental bridge, dentists typically need to strip down the enamel on the teeth that are adjacent to the gap before fitting these teeth with crowns. Once this process is complete, the dental prosthetic with the pontics is attached to dental crowns on either side of the gap largely replacing lost tooth function and appearance.
For most patients, a properly maintained dental bridge can last anywhere from five to 15 years.
Obtaining Implant-Based Bridges
While they are not appropriate in every case and for every patient, dental implants have become the gold standard for teeth replacement. Not only are they more convenient and, many believe, more attractive, they also help to prevent bone loss. An important issue that can lead to the loss of further teeth.
The process for installing an implant-based bridge is more complex as it involves a minor oral surgery. First, the dentist will need to see if the gap is ready for an implant. After the dentist has ensured the safety of the procedure, a screw-like implant is placed in the underlying bone structure. After the implant is installed, a temporary stay plate will be delivered for missing teeth. After the teeth and gums have recovered, the permanent crown or bridge will be set in place. At this point, the bridge can then be affixed to the implant-based crown and the procedure, aside from the necessary checkups, is complete.
Get Started
For more information on dental bridges or any other oral health concerns, call the number on this screen or visit our appointment page.