The Impact of Dental Bridges on Oral Health and Function

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth by "bridging" the gap between remaining teeth. They consist of two main components: the abutments, crowns placed on the adjacent healthy teeth or implants, and the false teeth, called pontics, that fill the gap. Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, dental bridges restore functionality and aesthetics, allowing patients to speak, chew, and smile confidently. The procedure involves preparing the abutment teeth, taking impressions, and crafting a custom bridge to precisely fit the patient's mouth. Dental bridges offer a durable and effective tooth loss solution, enhancing oral health and appearance. 

What to Expect During a Dental Bridge Procedure 

A dental bridge procedure is a common solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring function and appearance. The process generally involves several critical steps to ensure the bridge fits well and looks natural. The first step in the dental bridge procedure is a thorough consultation with our dentist in Aloha, OR. During this appointment, our dentist will evaluate your oral health, including the condition of the adjacent teeth and the surrounding gums. X-rays or other imaging may be used to assess the underlying bone structure. Based on this assessment, our dentist will discuss the best type of bridge for your needs, whether a traditional, cantilever, or Maryland bridge. They will also create a detailed treatment plan and discuss the expected outcomes. 

Once the treatment plan is finalized, the next step is preparing the adjacent teeth supporting the bridge. This involves reshaping these teeth to accommodate the dental crowns placed over them. The dentist will remove a portion of the enamel from these supporting teeth to ensure a proper fit for the crowns. After preparation, impressions of your teeth will be taken to create a custom bridge. These impressions can be made using traditional molds or digital scanning technology, capturing precise details of your dental structure. 

While your custom bridge is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, our dentist will place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain functionality. This temporary bridge helps to preserve the space and prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting while you wait for the final restoration. It is crucial to follow our dentist's instructions regarding the care and maintenance of the temporary bridge to avoid any complications. 

Once the permanent bridge is ready, usually after a few weeks, you'll return to the dental office for the final placement. During this visit, our dentist will remove the temporary bridge and carefully place the permanent bridge in position. They will check the fit, adjust the bite, and ensure the bridge aligns correctly with your natural teeth. Any necessary adjustments will be made to provide comfort and functionality. Once the bridge is fitted correctly, it will be securely cemented. 

After the bridge is placed, our dentist will provide specific care instructions to ensure the longevity of your new restoration. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, prevents decay and gum disease around the bridge. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the bridge's fit and ensure it remains in good condition. Our dentist will also assess the health of the surrounding teeth and gums during these visits. Contact us today to learn more.

The Benefits of Choosing a Custom-Made Dental Bridge 

• One of the primary benefits of a custom-made dental bridge in Aloha, OR, is the precise fit it provides. Custom bridges are explicitly tailored to your mouth's unique shape and alignment, ensuring a comfortable and natural fit. This precision minimizes the risk of discomfort and irritation often associated with ill-fitting bridges, leading to a more enjoyable and effective restoration experience. 

• Custom-made bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. The prosthetic teeth' color, size, and shape are carefully matched to your existing dentition, ensuring that the bridge looks as natural as possible. This attention to detail enhances your overall appearance and boosts your confidence, as the bridge will be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. 

• A custom bridge is designed to restore full functionality to your bite. Accurately replicating the size and position of your missing teeth allows for improved chewing and speaking capabilities. This tailored approach ensures that the bridge functions effectively in daily activities, from eating various foods to speaking clearly, enhancing your overall quality of life. 

• Custom-made dental bridges are crafted from high-quality materials and designed to withstand the pressures of daily use. The precise fit and high standards of craftsmanship contribute to the durability of the bridge, reducing the likelihood of wear and tear over time. This means that with proper care and maintenance, a custom-made bridge can provide a long-lasting solution for tooth replacement. 

• Ultimately, a custom-made dental bridge can significantly boost your self-esteem and confidence. Knowing that your bridge looks natural, feels comfortable, and functions effectively allows you to smile, speak, and eat confidently. This psychological benefit is invaluable, as it positively impacts your overall well-being and quality of life. 

Visit Bronitsky Family Dentistry at 17952 SW Blanton St, Aloha, OR 97078 or call (503) 649-5665 to schedule a consultation and discover how dental bridges can enhance your oral health, boost your confidence, and improve your quality of life.