What is a Traditional Dental Bridge?

A confident smile can light up a room and boost your self-esteem. However, missing teeth can mar that smile and affect your oral health. If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, dental bridges could be a solution for you. Dental bridges are a common and effective solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. In this post, Whittier Premier Dental will explore traditional dental bridges, including how the procedure is done, how to care for them, and alternative dental treatments.

What is a Traditional Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that is used to replace missing teeth. It is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a pontic, which is the artificial tooth that fills the gap. Traditional dental bridges have been used for many years and are still a common treatment option for tooth loss. They are typically made of porcelain fused with metal or ceramics. They are held in place by dental crowns that are placed over the teeth on either side of the gap. Traditional bridges are a good option if you have healthy teeth on either side of the gap and do not want to undergo surgery for dental implants. They are custom-made to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking smile while restoring the functionality of your teeth. 

Who Needs a Traditional Dental Bridge?

If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be a candidate for a traditional dental bridge. Bridges are a common solution for patients who have lost teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. They are designed to fill the gap left by missing teeth and restore your smile.

Here are some factors that may indicate you need a traditional dental bridge:

• You have one or more missing teeth.
• The missing teeth are causing problems with your bite or speech.
• You are experiencing discomfort or pain due to missing teeth.
• You are self-conscious about your smile due to missing teeth.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, a dental bridge may be a good option for you. Our team at Whittier Premier Dental in Whittier, California can evaluate your oral health and recommend the proper treatment plan for your needs. It is important to note that not everyone is a good candidate for a traditional dental bridge. Factors such as the health of your remaining teeth and gums, as well as your overall oral health play a role in determining your qualification for a dental bridge. 

The Traditional Dental Bridge Procedure

The traditional dental bridge procedure involves several steps, including:

Initial consultation

During your first visit, our team at Whittier Premier Dental will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for a dental bridge. They will also discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have.

Preparing the abutment teeth

The teeth on either side of the gap where your missing tooth used to be will be prepared by removing a portion of the enamel. This is necessary to make room for the dental crowns that will be placed on these teeth to support the bridge.

Impressions

Once the abutment teeth are prepared, our dentists will take impressions of your teeth. These impressions will be used to create a custom-made bridge that fits in your mouth.

Temporary bridge

While your permanent bridge is being made, our dentists will place a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.

Fitting the permanent bridge

Once your permanent bridge is ready, the temporary bridge will be removed, and the permanent bridge will be fitted onto the abutment teeth, making any necessary adjustments to ensure that the bridge fits comfortably and looks natural.

Follow-up appointments

After the procedure, you will need to attend follow-up appointments to ensure that your bridge is functioning properly and your mouth is healing correctly.

The traditional dental bridge procedure is a reliable and effective way to replace missing teeth. With proper care, your bridge can last for many years, restoring function and confidence to your smile.

How to Care for Your Traditional Dental Bridge

Maintaining your dental bridge is important to ensure its longevity and prevent any complications. Here are some tips for maintaining your traditional dental bridge:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove any food particles and plaque from between your teeth and around your bridge.
• Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can damage your bridge or dislodge it.
• Visit Whittier Premier Dental regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Our dental team in Whittier, California can detect any issues with your bridge and address them before they worsen.
• If you notice any discomfort or pain around your bridge, seek dental care immediately. Do not attempt to adjust or fix your bridge on your own.

Other Types of Dental Bridges

In addition to traditional bridges, there are several other types of dental bridges that you may consider: 

Cantilever bridges

These bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but they only require one natural tooth to anchor the bridge in place. This is useful when there is only one natural tooth adjacent to the gap.

Maryland bridges

Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these bridges are made of a metal or porcelain framework with resin wings on either side. The wings are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth, making them a good option for patients with healthy teeth on either side of the gap.

Implant-supported bridges

These bridges are anchored in place by dental implants, which are titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone. This type of bridge is a good option for patients who have multiple missing teeth or who are not good candidates for traditional bridges.

It is important to note that not all types of bridges are suitable for every patient. Our dentists at Whittier Premier Dental will evaluate your oral health and recommend the appropriate type of bridge for your specific needs.

Alternatives to Dental Bridges

If you are considering dental bridges to replace missing teeth, there are several alternatives to traditional bridges that you may want to explore. 

Dental Bridge Alternative #1: Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular alternative to traditional bridges. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and serve as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a crown is placed on top to create a natural-looking replacement tooth. Implants are a more permanent solution than traditional bridges and can last for many years with proper care.

Dental Bridge Alternative #2: Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are another alternative to traditional bridges. They are made of a metal framework and plastic teeth and can be removed for cleaning. Partial dentures are less expensive than implants and can be a good option if you have several missing teeth in different areas of your mouth.

Why Should I Opt for Dental Bridges at Whittier Premier Dental?

Dental bridges are a common and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. If you're dealing with missing teeth and considering your options for tooth replacement, traditional dental bridges offer a tried-and-true solution. Their durability, natural appearance, and non-invasive nature make them an appealing choice for many patients. If you choose a traditional bridge, you can expect a relatively simple procedure that can be completed in just a few visits to our team in California. With proper care and maintenance, your bridge can last for many years, helping you to enjoy a healthy, functional smile.

Live Comfortably with a Dental Bridge

At Whittier Premier Dental, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care, including the design and placement of your traditional bridges. Don't let missing teeth affect your oral health and self-confidence any longer. Schedule a consultation with us today by calling (562) 695-1219 to discuss your unique needs and explore how traditional dental bridges can transform your smile.