Storts Family Dentistry offers expert restorative dentistry treatments in Southern Oklahoma for patients missing teeth. Every person has unique needs when replacing their teeth. Your Storts Family dentist will analyze your smile and recommend the best restorative treatment for you.
One solution they may suggest is a dental bridge. It can restore functionality and aesthetics of their smile if you have one or several missing teeth in a row. Storts Family Dentistry can provide you with a dental bridge in Ardmore and Madill, OK that will blend in with your surrounding teeth.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration. It has false teeth called pontics that are attached to dental crowns or a framework. A dental bridge can replace one tooth or several teeth in a row. The dental restoration functions as a bridge by bridging the gap created by the missing tooth or teeth.
Your dentist will anchor the dental crown portion of the bridge or the framework to the adjacent teeth or dental implants. Using dental bridges, we have restored the oral function, preserved the facial structure, and enhanced the overall appearance of many patients.
Different Types of Dental Bridges
Traditional Dental Bridge: The most common type of dental bridge is the traditional dental bridge. It consists of a dental crown, one or more pontics, and then another dental crown. Your dentist will prepare the teeth adjacent by removing some of the enamel to accommodate the dental crowns. This is a fixed dental restoration since your dentist will cement the dental crowns the adjacent abutment teeth.
Cantilever Bridge: A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional dental bridge however is it anchored differently. Instead of anchoring it to two adjacent teeth, your dentist will anchor it to one. We use this type of bridge when there is only one healthy tooth next to the gap. However, the dental bridge is not as stable since only one tooth is holding it in place.
Maryland Bonded Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges): A Maryland bridge is a unique type of dental bridge. Instead of using dental crowns to anchor the pontics, it uses a framework bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth. It requires little alteration of the adjacent teeth making it a conservative option. Dentists use it to replace one missing front teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridges: Patients missing several teeth in a row can choose to replace them with an implant-supported bridge. Your dentist will secure the dental bridge to dental implants instead of natural teeth. They will surgically insert dental implants into the jaw on each side of the gap. It provides a more stable and durable base for the dental bridge.
Steps to Install a Dental Bridge
A traditional, cantilever, or Maryland bonded dental bridge will require the use of your adjacent teeth. A cantilever and traditional bridge use dental crowns anchored to those teeth.
At your first dentist appointment, your dentist will need reduce the size of your adjacent teeth. This involves removing a significant amount of enamel. We will use local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth for your comfort.
For a Maryland bridge, minimal enamel removal is necessary. Your dentist will create space on the back of the adjacent teeth to prepare for the framework.
Once your prepares your teeth, we will take several dental impressions. We need molds of your teeth to create a permanent and temporary dental bridge. Your dentist will secure a temporary bridge until your permanent one is ready.
When your permanent dental bridge is ready, typically it takes 2 to 3 weeks, you will return for a second visit. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and secure the permanent one. They will use a bonding agent or dental cement to secure the final bridge to the adjacent teeth.
How Is Receiving an Implant-Supported Bridge Different?
The process to receive an implant-supported dental bridge is different. Instead of preparing adjacent teeth, your dentist will surgically place dental implants in the jaw bone. They will serve at the anchors for the dental bridge.
The dental implants require several months of healing time before your dentist can secure the permanent dental bridge. They can place a regular bridge in less than a month however an implant supported bridge will take several months.
What are the Advantages of an Implant-Supported Bridge
- Stability: Implants provide a secure and stable foundation, reducing the risk of movement or shifting of the bridge.
- Preservation of Adjacent Teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges do not require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth.
- Bone Health: The presence of implants stimulates the jawbone, helping to maintain bone density and prevent bone resorption.
If you require a dental bridge in Ardmore and Madill, OK, please contact Storts Family Dentistry today. You can reach our dentist office by calling (580) 260-3410 or you can request an appointment online by filling out the form.