What Is a Dental Bridge?
At our Hermosa Beach dental practice, we offer advanced prosthodontic solutions, including dental bridges, to restore missing teeth with precision and care. A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Unlike removable dentures, bridges are securely bonded, providing a durable solution that replicates the look and function of natural teeth.
Components of a Dental Bridge
- Pontics: Artificial teeth that fill the gap left by missing teeth.
- Abutments: Natural teeth or implants that anchor the bridge.
Dental bridges not only restore oral function but also prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, ensuring a complete and confident smile.
Types of Dental Bridges
Our Hermosa Beach dental specialists offer two main types of dental bridges to suit various needs and preferences:
Tooth-Supported Bridges
Tooth-supported bridges rely on natural teeth for support. These teeth are prepared and fitted with crowns to anchor the bridge in place.
Best For:
- Patients with healthy teeth adjacent to the gap.
- Those seeking a non-surgical solution.
Tooth-supported bridges are a reliable option for patients who prefer a less invasive procedure or aren’t candidates for implant surgery.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
Implant-supported bridges use dental implants as anchors instead of natural teeth. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the bridge.
Best For:
- Patients with multiple missing teeth.
- Those who want to preserve adjacent natural teeth.
- Individuals seeking a highly durable, long-term solution.
Implant-supported bridges also help maintain jawbone health by stimulating bone tissue and preventing bone loss.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous benefits, making them a popular choice for tooth replacement:
- Restore Functionality: Chew, bite, and speak naturally.
- Enhance Appearance: Custom-designed to match your natural teeth, creating a seamless smile.
- Prevent Shifting: Filling gaps prevents adjacent teeth from drifting out of alignment.
- Boost Confidence: A complete smile enhances self-esteem and comfort in social settings.
With proper care, dental bridges can last 10–15 years or longer, providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for missing teeth.
The Dental Bridge Process
The process of getting a dental bridge typically involves two to three appointments:
1. Consultation and Evaluation
During your first visit, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation to determine the best type of bridge for your needs. This includes assessing the health of your natural teeth or implants, discussing your goals, and creating a personalized treatment plan.
2. Tooth Preparation and Impressions
If you’re receiving a tooth-supported bridge, the abutment teeth will be reshaped to accommodate crowns. For implant-supported bridges, we’ll coordinate with your dental surgeon to ensure optimal implant placement.
Digital impressions will be taken to design a bridge that fits perfectly and looks natural. These advanced scans eliminate the need for traditional impression trays, providing greater accuracy and comfort.
3. Bridge Placement
Once your custom bridge is ready, it will be carefully placed and adjusted for fit, comfort, and aesthetics. When you and our team are satisfied with the results, the bridge will be securely bonded in place, restoring your smile and oral function.
Maintaining Your Dental Bridge
Proper care is essential for keeping your dental bridge functional and beautiful for years to come. Follow these tips to maintain your bridge:
- Brush and floss daily, paying special attention to the area around the bridge.
- Use a floss threader or water flosser to clean underneath the bridge.
- Avoid chewing hard foods or objects to prevent damage.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor your oral health.
With diligent care, your bridge can provide reliable and lasting results.
Why Choose Our Prosthodontists?
Choosing the right provider for your dental bridge is essential to achieving outstanding results. At South Bay Prosthodontics, we specialize in full mouth rehabilitation, a customized approach that combines restorative and cosmetic dentistry to restore oral health, functionality, and aesthetics. We focus on precision, comfort, and personalized care to deliver high-quality restorations, addressing complex dental issues, rebuilding damaged teeth, and replacing missing ones to enhance your overall oral health.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Custom Solutions: Each bridge is designed to match your natural teeth and meet your unique needs.
- Advanced Technology: Digital impressions ensure precise fit and comfort.
- Comprehensive Care: From consultation to placement, we focus on your satisfaction and long-term oral health.
Our expertise and commitment to excellence ensure your dental bridge enhances both the function and appearance of your smile.
Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge
Missing teeth? Restore your smile’s function and beauty with a dental bridge. Call our Hermosa Beach dental office today at (310) 374-8901 to regain confidence!