Dental Bridges in Beverly Hills, CA

Replace Missing Teeth With a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges are quite a common procedure for missing teeth. Dental implants are, however, gaining more popularity over the years, but dental bridges are a time-tested solution for one or more missing teeth. This procedure is a more affordable solution to replace a missing tooth, compared to implants.

 As the name suggests, the dental bridge bridges the gap that a missing tooth or teeth has formed in the mouth, using whole, adjacent teeth as anchors. There is a variety of materials which a dentist can recommend for dental bridges – from ceramic and porcelain, to silver amalgam and gold, depending on each patients individual case. Modern technology has made it possible to give the appearance of natural teeth to dental bridges of today. This can boost the self-esteem of a person who had a missing tooth.

YOU HAVE QUESTIONS , WE HAVE THE ANSWERS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL BONDING

An individual who is missing one to three consecutive teeth would be the ideal candidate for the dental bridge. Candidates with a large number of missing teeth would do better with removal or fixed partial or complete dentures, like traditional dentures or All-on-4 dental implants. It’s best to discuss the options with a qualified dentist, as he/she would be able to guide you on what would be best for your specific situation. The dentist first needs to ensure the gums are healthy. If the patient has gum disease or other issues, it would be best to let the dentist know in advance.

The different types of the dental bridges include the traditional dental bridge, cantilever dental bridge, Maryland bridges, and implant-supported bridgesAsk your dentist which bridge would be most suitable. It is important to ask questions to the dentist and it is in fact, an indication of a good dentist that they provide answers to all of your questions. A dentist would be able to evaluate and provide a professional recommendation. A dentist has the required expertise and knowledge and knows what is best for the patient

Local anesthesia can be administered, ensuring the patient remains comfortable and the procedure painless. However, if there is any kind of discomfort at any point, it’s best to let your dentist know as soon as possible.

The process for getting the dental bridge is as follows:

First Visit:
The very first visit requires preparation of the teeth that the bridge will be anchored to. The anchor teeth will be shaped in order to fit the crowns that the bridge is connected to.
Getting Impressions of the Teeth:
The next step after the anchoring teeth are prepared, is to get an impression done, this impression serves as a model for the crowns and bridge. The impressions will be made in the dental lab. The dentist will then place a temporary bridge while the permanent bridge is being made, ensuring that your teeth remain functional and aesthetic in the meantime.

Second Visit:
During the second visit to the dentist, he/she will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent one. This will either be made from metal or porcelain. It’s necessary to achieve a proper fit at this point. Keep in mind that there will be multiple visits to the dentist office to ensure you are comfortable and a proper bite is acheived. It’s very important that it is in the correct position. The bite of an individual should be perfect. So, if you feel any kind of discomfort at this point do let the dentist know about it. The dentist will make sure that it is a perfect fit. However, it is important to keep in mind that each individual is different and it depends on every case. For some people it would take fewer visits to get the best fit; however, for others, there can be multiple visits. In any case, let the dentist know about your situation. In the case of a fixed bridge, a dentist is likely add a temporary cement until comfort and bite are secured, after which your dentist will permanently cement the bridge in place.

A dentist will provide the patient with different options, including the dental bridge. Since dental implants can be quite costly, getting a dental bridge can be a good solution for some people. It is important, however, to keep the pros and cons of getting a dental bridge before undergoing the procedure. At some point, a dental bridge will need to be replaced, but with a well placed dental implant that’s well taken care of, you can have a lifetime tooth-replacement option.

A dentist will provide the patient with different options, including the dental bridge. Since dental implants can be quite costly, getting a dental bridge can be a good solution for some people. It is important, however, to keep the pros and cons of getting a dental bridge before undergoing the procedure. At some point, a dental bridge will need to be replaced, but with a well placed dental implant that’s well taken care of, you can have a lifetime tooth-replacement option.

Dental bridge cost depends on a variety of factors. From how many teeth are being replaced and what material is being used, to how experienced the dentist is and where in the country they are. It’s best to get a cost estimate in advance from your chosen dentist and an estimation of benefits from your insurance provider.

In the beginning, it would be better to chew soft food, as you will just be getting used to having your new teeth. Cutting your food into smaller portions would also be a good idea. Ask the dentist for advice and recommendations. It’s better to go over any concerns you have with your dentist in advance.

Your dentist will be able to guide you on what procedure would be best for your particular situation. Some people might not be able to afford dental implants, as they can be expensive, but may want a less permanent, but more affordable solution and go for dental bridges. The lifespan of implants is greater than dental bridges and it is important to keep in mind that at some point in the future there would be a need to replace a dental bridge.

After getting the procedure, it is important to care for the dental bridges. The following points can be quite helpful:

  • Maintain oral care and invest in a good toothbrush and toothpaste. Ask the dentist and buy the toothpaste as per his/her recommendation.
  • Make sure you are going for regular professional dental cleanings. It is important to remember that cleanliness is important to maintaining good oral health.
  • Floss regularly to get rid of stuck food between the teeth and under the dental bridge.

BENEFITS OF A DENTAL BRIDGE

Getting a dental bridge means a person would be able to restore their smile. Losing a tooth can be quite a traumatic experience. Replacement of missing teeth can be a huge confidence booster. When there is a missing tooth in the mouth, it can be quite difficult for a person to chew food properly and sometimes it can cause speech issues. Replacing the missing tooth assists in getting rid of these issues to some extent. Replacing the missing tooth with a bridge would assist in maintaining the shape of the face as well. It is important that individuals take care of their original teeth; however, due to unforeseen circumstances like an accident, negligence, or poor oral hygiene, teeth can become compromised.

Missing teeth can disrupt the bite of a person as well, and it is important to fix the issue. Some people might ignore the missing tooth because of cost, dental anxiety, or a number of other reasons, but it is important to give this issue priority. When teeth are missing in the mouth, there is a gap and thus, there are chances of other teeth drifting towards the empty space in your smile causing alignment problems in the mouth. A dental bridge can help prevent this from occurring. However, it is best to discuss the options with a skilled dentist, as they have the required expertise and knowledge to provide the best possible recommendation. Each individual is different and has different needs. If you’d like to find out if you’d make a good candidate for this procedure is Beverly Hills dentist, Dr. Justin Raanan, can address that and any other questions you have, as well as go over all other options for your missing tooth. Give us a call today!

Dr. Justin Raanan, DDS.. MMSc. Periodontist

414 N Camden Dr Suite 1240, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

(310) 205-5315