Restore Your Smile’s Appearance and Functionality with Bridges
Missing teeth can be a significant aesthetic and functional problem, affecting speech, biting, and chewing abilities. Dental bridges are a popular and effective option for patients who have lost one or more teeth.
At Westbury Dental Spa, Dr. Farhana Oza-Chughtai, one of the best dentists in Westbury, NY, will personalize your dental bridge to meet your needs. Learn more about dental bridges and if you qualify for this stunning restorative solution.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth by attaching to the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth, also known as pontics, and two or more dental crowns that anchor the bridge to the adjacent teeth. Bridges can restore up to four adjacent missing teeth.
What Can Dental Bridges Fix?
Dental bridges are an effective solution for fixing several dental problems, including:
- Missing Teeth: Dental bridges can replace one or more missing teeth, restoring your smile’s natural appearance.
- Bite Misalignment: If you have missing teeth, your remaining teeth may shift out of position, causing bite misalignment. Dental bridges can prevent the adjacent teeth from moving and maintain your alignment.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease can cause gum recession, exposing the tooth roots and increasing the risk of tooth loss. Dental bridges can protect the remaining teeth and gums from further damage.
- Speech Impediments: Missing teeth can affect speech, causing lisping or slurring. Dental bridges can restore your speech’s clarity and natural sound.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges from our Westbury dental team offer several benefits, including:
- Improved Appearance: Dental bridges can restore your smile’s natural beauty and enhance your facial aesthetics.
- Better Functionality: Dental bridges can improve speech, biting, and chewing abilities.
- Prevents Teeth from Shifting: Bridges can prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap left by a missing tooth.
- Protects Oral Health: Bridges can help maintain the shape and integrity of the jawbone and help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
The Dental Bridge Process
The dental bridges procedure typically involves several steps, including:
- Consultation: During the initial consultation, your Westbury dentist will examine the teeth and gums, take X-rays and impressions, and discuss your treatment options.
- Tooth Preparation: If you opt for a traditional or cantilever bridge, Dr. Oza-Chughtai will prepare the teeth adjacent to the gap by removing some of the enamel to accommodate the dental crowns.
- Impressions: Your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental lab, where the dental bridge will be custom-made to fit your mouth’s exact specifications.
- Temporary Bridge: While you wait for your permanent bridge, your Wesbury dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.
- Final Fitting: Once your permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and place the permanent bridge in your mouth. They’ll then ensure the bridge fits comfortably and adjust it if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of dental bridges varies depending on the type of bridge, the material used, and the number of teeth that need to be replaced. Traditional bridges are less expensive than implant-supported bridges, and porcelain bridges are more costly than metal bridges. However, dental bridges are a long-term investment in oral health and can save you money in the long run by preventing further dental problems.
Caring for your dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush twice daily floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the bridge. Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to ensure your bridge’s longevity and oral health’s overall well-being.
Generally, dental bridges can last anywhere from five to 15 years or longer with proper care and maintenance. However, the lifespan of your dental bridge depends on several factors, such as the type of bridge, the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and your lifestyle choices.
During the dental bridge placement, your dentist will numb the surrounding area with a local anesthetic, so you should not feel any pain. After the anesthetic wears off, you may experience mild discomfort. This discomfort should subside within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft diet.
Take the First Step Toward a Restored Smile With a Personalized Bridge
Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring your smile’s natural appearance, and improving oral health and functionality. Dr. Oza-Chughtai will customize your bridge to meet your needs and improve your smile. Call our Westbury, NY, office today at (516) 282-5100 to schedule your consultation. You can also book an appointment online by filling out our contact form.