You're grappling with the discomfort and self-consciousness that comes with missing teeth. So, what's a reliable solution?
The answer is bonded dental bridges!
Today we're diving into the comprehensive process of obtaining bonded dental bridges, giving you all the necessary information to decide if this is the right dental care solution for you.
Understanding Bonded Dental Bridges
Bonded dental bridges are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. These bridges are made of durable materials like porcelain or ceramics, matched to the color of your natural teeth. They are secured in place by bonding the materials to existing teeth or implants adjacent to the empty space.
The main types include traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and Maryland bonded bridges. Each type is tailored to
different dental needs.
Benefits of Bonded Dental Bridges
Choosing a bonded dental bridge comes with several benefits. First, they help restore your smile to its natural look, which can boost your confidence.
They also bring back the ability to chew and speak more effectively, as missing teeth can impair these functions. Another significant benefit is the prevention of other teeth from shifting out of place, which can lead to further dental issues.
Ideal Candidates
The best candidates for bonded dental bridges are people who have missing teeth (one or more) but also have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap. These neighboring teeth play and important role, since they support the bridge.
It's also important for candidates to have good overall oral health and commit to keeping up their dental hygiene. Dentists typically recommend this option to patients looking for a tooth replacement that blends seamlessly with their natural teeth.
The Process of Getting Bonded Dental Bridges
The first step in getting a bonded dental bridge is an initial consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy enough to support a bridge.
They will discuss your dental history and any current dental problems. This assessment helps determine if a dental bridge is the best solution for you.
Preparation of Teeth
Once you and your dentist decide on a bonded dental bridge, the next step will be preparing the supporting teeth. As we mentioned, these are the teeth next to the gap where the bridge will be placed.
The dentist starts by reshaping these teeth by removing a part of enamel. This will make room for the crowns that hold the bridge in place.
Impressions and Model Creation
After preparing the teeth, your dentist takes
impressions of your teeth. These impressions are then used to create a precise model of your mouth. This model helps dental technicians in crafting the bridge that fits perfectly in the gap and matches the shape and color of your surrounding teeth.
Temporary Bridge Fitting
While your permanent bridge is being made, your dentist may fit a temporary bridge. This temporary piece protects the exposed gums and reshaped teeth and keeps them stable until the permanent bridge is ready. It also lets you eat and speak without too much disruption.
Permanent Bridge Placement
When your permanent bridge is ready, you'll return to the dentist's office. The dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the new one. They will check the fit and make sure that your bite is correct, adjusting the bridge as necessary.
Once everything is set, the bridge is bonded securely to the prepared teeth using a strong adhesive.
Follow-up and Adjustments
After the placement of your dental bridge,
follow-up visits are essential. These appointments allow your dentist to monitor the bridge and make any needed adjustments.
They also give you a chance to discuss any concerns or issues you might have, ensuring the comfort and functionality of your new dental bridge. These visits help maintain the health of your bridge and the rest of your teeth.
Life with a Bonded Dental Bridge
Once your bonded dental bridge is in place, taking good care of it is important to ensure it
lasts a long time. Daily brushing and flossing are key, just as with your natural teeth.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the bridge. Special flosses, like floss threaders or water flossers, are great for cleaning under and around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup.
Regular check-ups with your dentist are also vital.
Common Challenges and Solutions
While dental bridges are a great solution for missing teeth, they can sometimes cause minor issues. For example, you might feel some initial discomfort or sensitivity to temperature changes.
Usually, these sensations decrease over time as your mouth adjusts to the new bridge. If discomfort persists, your dentist can help. Sometimes, the fit of the bridge might need a slight adjustment.
Impact on Daily Life
Having a dental bridge can significantly improve your daily life. It restores the ability to chew food properly and speak clearly, which might have been challenging with missing teeth.
Also, a full set of teeth supports a
healthy facial structure, which can improve your appearance and boost your confidence. Over time, most people find their dental bridge feels natural in their mouth, allowing them to eat, talk, and smile without thinking about it much.
Cost Comparison
When considering tooth replacement, cost is a significant factor for many people. Generally, dental bridges offer a middle-ground option in terms of expense. Implants tend to be the most expensive due to the surgery involved, whereas removable dentures typically are the least costly choice.
However, it's important to consider not just the upfront costs but also the long-term maintenance and potential replacement costs. Dental bridges, especially when well-maintained, can offer a durable solution without the need for frequent replacements.
Better Teeth Today
Bonded dental bridges offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for missing teeth, providing a blend of functionality and comfort.
At Sparkle Dental, we're a family-oriented dental practice providing a full range of dental services to the people of Mount Vernon, Yonkers and New Rochelle, NY. We offer all dental specialties at our practice, which means that whatever dental procedure you need, we can take care of it at our office, from simple cavity fillings to dental implants and root canals.
Get in touch today to find out
how we can help.
