Dental Bridges

Types of Dental Bridges

At Dental Partners of Creve Coeur, we offer several types of dental bridges to suit your specific needs and preferences:

• • Traditional Bridges: Traditional bridges are the most common type and consist of one or more pontics held in place by dental crowns on the abutment teeth. These bridges are suitable for patients with healthy teeth on either side of the gap.

• • Cantilever Bridges: Cantilever bridges are used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. This type of bridge is anchored by a single crown on the abutment tooth.

• • Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework with wings on each side that are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. This type of bridge requires minimal alteration to the surrounding teeth.

• • Implant-Supported Bridges: Implant-supported bridges are anchored by dental implants rather than natural teeth. This type of bridge is ideal for patients who do not have healthy teeth to support a traditional bridge or who are missing multiple teeth in a row.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer numerous benefits, making them an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth:

• • Restored Function: Bridges restore the normal function of your teeth, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

• • Improved Aesthetics: Custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, bridges provide a natural-looking restoration that enhances your smile.

• • Preventing Tooth Movement: By filling the gap left by missing teeth, bridges help prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of place, maintaining the proper alignment of your bite.

• • Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can provide a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth.

The Dental Bridge Process

The process of getting a dental bridge at Dental Partners of Creve Coeur involves several steps to ensure a precise fit and optimal results:

1. 1. Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, Dr. Singh will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if a dental bridge is the right solution for you. We will take digital X-rays and impressions of your teeth to create a detailed treatment plan.
   2. Tooth Preparation: For traditional and cantilever bridges, the abutment teeth on either side of the gap will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crowns. If you are receiving an implant-supported bridge, dental implants will be surgically placed in the jawbone.
   3. Impressions: After preparing the abutment teeth or placing the implants, we will take precise impressions of your teeth. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where your custom bridge will be fabricated to match the exact color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
   4. Temporary Bridge: While your custom bridge is being made, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the prepared teeth and maintain the appearance of your smile.
   5. Bridge Placement: Once your custom bridge is ready, you will return to our office for the final placement. Dr. Singh will remove the temporary bridge, check the fit and color of the permanent bridge, and make any necessary adjustments. The bridge is then securely bonded to the abutment teeth or attached to the dental implants.
   6. Final Adjustments: After the bridge is placed, Dr. Singh will make any final adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and natural appearance. You will leave our office with a fully restored, beautiful smile.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental bridge. Here are some tips for caring for your bridge:

• • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Pay special attention to the area around the bridge to prevent plaque buildup.

• • Use a Floss Threader: A floss threader can help you clean under the pontics and around the abutment teeth, ensuring that the area around your bridge remains free of plaque and food particles.

• • Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Be cautious when eating hard or sticky foods that could damage or dislodge your bridge. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, and other hard objects.

• • Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit Dental Partners of Creve Coeur regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Dr. Singh will monitor the condition of your bridge and address any issues promptly.

Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?

Dental bridges are an excellent solution for many patients with missing teeth. During your consultation, Dr. Singh will assess your specific dental needs and discuss the benefits and potential challenges of getting a bridge. Ideal candidates for dental bridges typically have:

• • One or more missing teeth

• • Healthy teeth or implants on either side of the gap

• • Good oral hygiene practices

• • A desire to restore the function and appearance of their smile

Schedule Your Dental Bridge Consultation

If you’re ready to restore your smile and improve your oral health with a dental bridge, contact Dental Partners of Creve Coeur to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sartaj Singh. Our team is here to provide you with the highest quality care and ensure your smile remains healthy and beautiful. Discover the benefits of dental bridges and take the first step towards a complete, confident smile today.