At Academy Dental, we understand the challenges and frustration of missing teeth. Whether it’s a single missing tooth or several, dental bridges can be the ideal solution to restore both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Led by Dr. Bhattal, our team provides high-quality, durable dental bridges designed to seamlessly fill the gaps left by missing teeth, allowing you to smile, chew, and speak with confidence once again.
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace missing teeth by “bridging” the gap between healthy adjacent teeth. A typical dental bridge consists of a false tooth, or pontic, which is supported by crowns placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This restoration is securely anchored, either by the surrounding healthy teeth or dental implants, ensuring stability and long-lasting functionality. Dental bridges not only restore the missing tooth’s appearance but also provide necessary support to your bite and overall oral health.
Types of Dental Bridges We Offer
At Academy Dental, we offer a range of dental bridge options, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here are the most common types we offer:
Traditional Bridges:
Ideal for healthy adjacent teeth: This is the most common type of dental bridge, consisting of a false tooth supported by crowns on the teeth adjacent to the gap. It provides a strong and durable solution.
Aesthetic Appeal: Made from porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal, traditional bridges look natural and blend well with surrounding teeth.
Cantilever Bridges:
Suitable for one-sided support: If there is only one healthy tooth next to the gap, a cantilever bridge may be the best option. It is supported by a single adjacent tooth, typically used for front teeth.
Minimal Tooth Reduction: This option requires minimal alteration to the adjacent tooth, making it less invasive.
Maryland Bridges:
Less invasive: Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework to bond the false tooth to the back of the adjacent teeth, offering a less invasive solution with minimal alteration to the neighboring teeth.
Great for front teeth: This bridge type is commonly used for replacing missing teeth in the front of the mouth due to its natural appearance.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
Long-term stability: If you don’t have strong adjacent teeth to support a bridge, implant-supported bridges are the perfect solution. These bridges are supported by dental implants, which are surgically placed into the jawbone for a more permanent and stable restoration.
Prevents bone loss: Implants help prevent the jawbone from deteriorating, a common issue when teeth are missing.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages that make them a popular choice for tooth restoration. Some of the key benefits include:
Restores Your Smile: Dental bridges effectively fill the gaps left by missing teeth, restoring the aesthetic balance of your smile.
Improved Functionality: By replacing missing teeth, bridges restore the ability to chew, speak, and smile naturally, just like your original teeth.
Prevents Tooth Shifting: Gaps left by missing teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to misalignment. A bridge helps maintain proper spacing and alignment.
Durable and Long-Lasting: With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, offering a reliable and long-term solution.
Enhanced Oral Health: By restoring the functionality of your teeth and bite, dental bridges reduce the strain on remaining teeth and prevent issues such as jaw pain or uneven wear.
Natural-Looking: Modern bridges are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance that enhances your overall smile.
Dr. Bhattal will evaluate your teeth and gums to determine the best type of dental bridge for you. This may include taking X-rays and impressions to guide the treatment plan.
If you are receiving a traditional bridge, the adjacent teeth will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to allow space for the crowns.
After the teeth are prepared, impressions are taken to create a custom bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. A temporary bridge may be placed while your permanent bridge is being made.
Once your custom bridge is ready, you will return to Academy Dental for the final placement. Dr. Bhattal will ensure the bridge fits properly, feels comfortable, and matches your natural teeth.
After placement, you may experience mild sensitivity, but this is typically temporary. Dr. Bhattal will provide care instructions to ensure your bridge stays in good condition and monitor your progress during follow-up visits.
