DENTAL BRIDGES IN SAN CLEMENTE CA.
- First Dental Visit
- Composite Fillings
- Cleaning & Gum Disease
- Comfort and Sedation
- Tooth Extraction & Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Root Canal Therapy
- Emergency Dental Care
Cosmetic Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Zoom Teeth Whitening
- Invisalign The clear alternative to Braces
- Durable Natural Looking Veneers
Tooth Replacement
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) restoration and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
Dental bridges replace missing teeth. Specifically, they can replace one tooth or a row of missing teeth.
As the name implies, this appliance literally “bridges the gap” in your smile. Dentists can create custom bridges that match the shade of your natural teeth.
There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to poetics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
There are different parts that make up a dental bridge:
- Abutments are the structures that support your dental bridge. While the term often refers to natural teeth, it can also refer to tiny connector posts used in dental implant-supported bridges.
- Pontiacs are the artificial (false) teeth that fill in the gap left behind by missing teeth.
Depending on your situation and the type of bridge you receive, your bridge might consist of one or more abutments and one or more Pontiacs.
Types of dental bridges
Dentists use different types of bridges based on your oral health goals. The main four types of dental bridges include:
- Traditional dental bridge. This is the most common type of dental bridge. It consists of dental crowns (caps) on both ends with Pontiacs (artificial teeth) in between. A dentist bonds the crowns to your natural teeth (abutments) on either side of the gap, and the artificial teeth (Pontiacs) fill in the space between. Dentists use traditional dental bridges when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
- Cantilever dental bridge. A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. But there’s only a crown on one end, not both. So, when your dentist bonds the bridge onto your abutment tooth, the artificial tooth (pontic) “hangs over” or extends across the gap. Dentists use cantilever bridges when you only have natural teeth on one side of the gap. Due to their design, cantilever bridges aren’t as strong as traditional bridges.
- Maryland dental bridge. A Maryland bridge (or resin-bonded bridge) uses metal wings instead of crowns to secure your bridge. A dentist bonds the wings to the backs of your neighboring teeth to hold your bridge in place. Dentists typically use Maryland bridges to replace front teeth. These appliances aren’t strong enough to withstand the chewing forces of back teeth.
- Implant-supported bridge. An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it rests atop dental implants instead of natural teeth. Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing teeth roots. Before attaching a bridge to dental implants, your implants must fully integrate (fuse) with your jawbone. This process takes three to six months on average, but it can take longer depending on your situation. Dentists can use implant-supported bridges when you have three or more missing teeth in a row.
To determine what type of bridge you need, a dentist will consider several factors, including:
- Your age. (Dentists typically don’t place bridges in children.)
- How many teeth you’re missing.
- The size of the gap.
- The condition of your teeth next to the gap.
- Whether you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap.
- The overall health of your teeth and gums.
- Your personal preferences.
Reasons for Fixed Bridge
- Fill space of missing teeth
- Maintain facial shape
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
- Restore chewing and speaking ability
- Restore your smile
- Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance
If you would like to schedule an appointment at San Clemente Dental Associates today, call (949) 234-0500, fill out our Appointment Request Form. We are conveniently located at 638 Camino Del Los Mares # C140 ..San Clemente, CA 92673.
. We look forward to your visit and taking care of all your dental needs!
San Clemente
San Clemente Dental Associates
638 Camino Del Los Mares # C140 San Clemente CA. 92673
Lake Forest
Southern California Family Dentistry
23361 El Toro Road, Ste. 117
Lake Forest, CA. 92530
Whittier
Southern California Family Dentistry
14412 Whittier Blvd.
Whittier CA. 90605
Whittier CA. 90605