Replace Your Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges

Missing teeth are a dental challenge. Not only do they affect your smile, but also your dental structure. When these spaces are left unfilled for a long time, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift and occupy the space. Furthermore, the supporting bone (alveolar) will get reabsorbed by the body. This will weaken your dental structure.

Fixing these teeth is important to your dental health. Fortunately, we have treatments like dental bridges in Hempstead Station, NY, that can help replace your teeth and smile.

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are false teeth that close the gaps. These bridges are cemented in place are durable. They are also available on different types:

• • Traditional bridges

These are false teeth anchored in place by a dental crown. These are the most common bridges and they are used when you have healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gaps.

• • Cantilever bridges

While they are similar to the traditional braces, these are held in place by a dental crown fixed on one tooth. The tooth, however, needs to be healthy for the bridges to be fixed. These bridges are not as durable and they are ideal for the front teeth.

• • Maryland dental bridge

These bridges also need two natural teeth to be fixed. However, instead of the dental crown, these bridges use a framework of metal or porcelain. The framework is bonded onto the back of the teeth.

• • Implant-supported bridges

These bridges use dental implants as opposed to crowns. A dentist near you will fix the dental implant on the jaw to support the bridge. They are more stable than the other forms of bridges, but, you need to have sufficient bone support for the implants to be fixed.

How Long Does it Take for the Bridges to be Fixed?

Teeth bridges need about two dental visits to be fixed.

1. 1. First dental visit

The dentist will begin the process with a comprehensive dental examination to check the condition of your teeth and bone support. The dentist may do an x-ray to examine the jaw bone and gums.

Teeth preparation is required for the bridges to be fixed. The dentist will begin by trimming and reshaping your teeth to make room for the dental crowns. This process is irreversible, so make sure you consult the dentist about the treatment option for missing teeth.

A dental impression is taken to make the bridges. This process can take three weeks to be complete. As you wait the dentist will cover the reshaped teeth with temporary bridges to protect them from sensitivity.

1. 1. Second dental visit

This dental visit involves fixing the permanent bridges. The dentist will remove the temporary bridges and clean the teeth. Next, the dentist will fix the bridges with a special block of cement. The cement is hardened with laser light. The dentist will remove the excess cement and polish the teeth for a final look.

A follow-up visit may be scheduled to assess the bridges and the gums.

How Long Do the Bridges Last?

Dental bridges are semi-permanent and they last for about 15 years with proper care. You, however, need to practice proper dental hygiene to maintain the durability of the bridges.

Also, visit the dentist regularly to have your teeth and bridges assessed for any cracks and chips. Remember, tiny cracks can trap food particles and cause the teeth underneath to decay. Brush, floss, and use mouth wash daily to get rid of any food particles.

Are There Any Alternatives

Yes, there are alternatives to dental bridges. You can choose between implants and dentures depending on the number of teeth missing and the condition of your supporting bone.

Teeth implants are fixed on the jaw bone to anchor the artificial teeth. You need to have enough bone density for the implants to be fixed.

Dentures are ideal if you have multiple teeth missing. You can choose between partial and complete dentures to replace the teeth. These false teeth are removable and they tend to lose their fit with time. Therefore, make sure you visit the dentist for readjustment often.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Kane Dental for more information on dental bridges and how they work. Call us right now to book a consultation with our dentist near you at Kane Dental Centers. We also cater to patients residing in nearby communities like West Hills, South Hempstead, Hempstead Station, Joshua Street, Chichester Road, and Schwab Road.