Missing teeth can put a damper on some of the best things in life. Even if you lack just a single tooth you might
find that you struggle to eat and talk as freely as you would like.
Thankfully, these problems don’t
have to last forever. There are plenty of ways to fill the openings in your smile. Dental bridges from the Rancho Bernardo dental practice of Nelson Y. Howard, D.D.S. can make your smile shine and gaps disappear. If
you’re interested in learning more, give us a call and we’ll
talk to you about what this procedure can do.
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device designed to replace missing teeth. Visually, it consists of one or more false teeth, known as pontics, held in place by crowns attached to the adjacent natural teeth or implants. Dental bridges restore the function and aesthetics of a smile, making them ideal for individuals missing one or several teeth. Suitable candidates are those with strong adjacent teeth or implants that can support the bridge. These bridges are typically made from durable materials like porcelain, ceramics, or metal alloys to mimic the natural appearance and strength of teeth.
Choosing the right type of dental bridge is crucial. During a consultation, we will assess your specific needs, the health of your remaining teeth, and your aesthetic goals to recommend the most appropriate bridge. The decision is influenced by factors such as the location of the missing tooth, the condition of adjacent teeth, and personal preferences regarding materials and budget.
Traditional dental bridges involve creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing one, with a pontic in between. This type is highly beneficial for restoring your smile by filling the gap, improving chewing function, and preventing remaining teeth from shifting out of place. It is a cost-effective solution that blends seamlessly with natural teeth, enhancing overall oral health.
Implant bridges utilize dental implants as support instead of crowns on adjacent teeth. This approach preserves the integrity of surrounding teeth by eliminating the need to shape them into supports, which is often required for traditional bridges. The benefits include enhanced stability, a natural feel, and the prevention of bone loss in the jaw, contributing to a healthier oral structure and improved long-term outcomes.
Neglecting to replace missing teeth can lead to several issues, including teeth shifting into the gap, misalignment, decreased self-confidence, difficulty eating, and an increased risk of oral health problems. A dental bridge addresses these problems by providing a fixed replacement that improves both function and appearance. By filling the gap, bridges help maintain the alignment of your teeth, enhance your ability to speak and chew, and boost your confidence with a complete smile. Consider scheduling a consultation with us to explore how a dental bridge can benefit you and restore the full function and aesthetics of your smile.