Missing teeth in a smile can undermine your confidence and age you in a way that few other dental issues can. But if you have a space where one or more teeth are missing, it’s not only a cosmetic dental issue. Increased pressure is being added to the surrounding teeth, your speech may be affected, and the teeth around the space may begin to drift out of place. While there are various options to correct the issue, a dental bridge that is an attractive, functional, long-term tooth replacement may be the best for you.
If you live in Spokane and you’re interested in talking with Drs. Ken & Marnie Collins about a dental bridge, please contact them online or phone their office at 509-532-1111.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is quite literally a bridge from one tooth to another separated by a gap. Dental crowns are attached to the two teeth around the gap, joined by a false tooth, or pontic, in place of the missing tooth. The finished product will be permanent, unlike a partial denture, which follows the same concept but is removable.
Cosmetic dentists like Drs. Ken & Marnie Collins can also do a partial denture, which snaps onto the surrounding teeth rather than being bonded, but every situation is different and you would need to consult with them about the benefits of either option.
The Dental Bridge Process
A placement generally takes two office visits. At the first visit, our dentists will ensure that the surrounding, or abutment, teeth are strong enough to support the bridge. Once the teeth are cleared for duty, the dentists will numb the area and prepare the abutment teeth by removing a small portion of the enamel to ensure there is room for the bridge to be placed on top. Next, they will make an impression of the area that will be sent to a dental laboratory to prepare your dental bridge. The impression will not only give them the shape of the new dental crowns for the abutment teeth, but will also provide the shape for the pontic, or false tooth that will be put in. Our dentists will then cover the prepared area with a temporary bridge until your permanent bridge can be placed.
Once the lab has completed your custom-made dental bridge, you will visit our office for the second time. Our dentists will ensure that the fit and color are perfect before bonding the crowns to the abutment teeth. Once the dental bridge is permanently secured, your missing tooth will be an issue of the past, and you can once again be confident that you look your best.
Dental Bridge Material
A dental bridge essentially acts as a false tooth, known as a pontic, which is secured by abutment teeth located on either side of the gap. Typically, dental bridges are crafted from a variety of materials, including porcelain to match the natural color of teeth, or in some cases, metals for added strength.
How Durable Are Dental Bridges?
The durability of dental bridges is a common point of inquiry. With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can last from five to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. The lifespan hinges on the quality of the materials, the health of the supporting teeth, and the commitment of the patient to meticulous oral hygiene.
However, dental bridges do come with certain considerations. The preparation for a bridge requires reshaping the adjacent teeth, which will permanently need to be protected with crowns. Additionally, unlike dental implants, bridges do not address bone loss in the jaw that can occur following tooth loss.
How Many Teeth Can Be Replaced?
The number of teeth that a dental bridge can replace is not unlimited; the restoration is most suitable for one or two missing teeth. This is because the bridge's stability depends on the health of adjacent teeth and the location of the gap. A longer span covered by a bridge could put undue pressure on the abutment teeth and lead to complications.
Maintaining Healthy Teeth
Care for a dental bridge is akin to caring for one's own teeth and includes regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. Particular attention is given to the area under the pontic to prevent plaque buildup and to maintain the health of the entire bridge.
Choosing Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics
Dental bridges represent a reliable, less invasive option for replacing missing teeth and restoring dental function. They mesh seamlessly with the natural dentition when executed with precision and skill, qualities that patients find at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics. Dr. Ken and Marnie Collins, with their dedicated team, ensure that each patient receives comprehensive care that resonates with their commitment to excellence in dental health and patient satisfaction.
For those seeking solutions to missing teeth, bridges offer a proven pathway to a restored smile. It's a journey best undertaken with the guidance of trusted professionals, such as the team at Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, where patient care is at the forefront of their work.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implants
When considering dental bridges against other options like implants, it's important to weigh factors such as treatment time, invasiveness, cost, and personal health suitability. Bridges are often the preferred choice for those seeking a less invasive and more cost-effective immediate solution.
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics in Spokane, WA, patients can expect a thorough evaluation of their dental needs. Dr. Ken and Dr. Marnie Collins bring a wealth of experience to the table, crafting personalized treatment plans that reflect the patient's oral health status and aesthetic goals. They understand the importance of restoring not just the function, but also the natural appearance of teeth, ensuring that patients leave with smiles that are as beautiful as they are healthy.
Consider Dental Implants
Another option available for missing teeth is a dental implant, which will not affect the surrounding teeth. Most dentists prefer dental implants because they not only fix the appearance of missing teeth and keep the rest of your teeth from moving, but dental implants also protect your jaw from bone loss (also called resorption). Dental implants also work in situations where your natural teeth can’t support a dental bridge. However, if a dental implant is prohibitively expensive, there are options to not living with a missing tooth.
Considering a Dental Bridge in Spokane?
If you are in the Spokane area and want to talk to someone about a dental bridge, please contact Drs. Ken & Marnie Collins online or by phone at 509-532-1111 in Spokane. You can also make an appointment online.