Are you wondering if a dental bridge is right for your needs? Read here to find out everything that you need to know about bonded dental bridges.
Do you have a hole in your mouth from a missing tooth? Imagine if grew larger and larger the more you ignored it.
The health effects from that space, such as plaque buildup and a shifting smile, will worsen over time. Brides are a popular solution. There are many types, but one is becoming increasingly popular.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about bonded dental bridges.
What Are Bonded Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a replacement for missing teeth. They're anchored between natural teeth and then fill in the gap.
Bonded bridges, also known as Maryland or Rochette bridges, use metal or porcelain frameworks known as wings. They're bonded to the back of the natural teeth. They're most often used in the front because they can't handle the chewing force in the back.
Benefits
A missing tooth is an emergency, but finding the right treatment method turns off the red light of danger. What are the reasons a dentist might recommend a bonded bridge?
Minimally Invasive
Getting a bonded dental bridge is one of the less invasive methods for replacing missing teeth. It requires no drilling, surgery, or implantation.
This makes the procedure less intimidating so patients aren't afraid to try it. It's also less painful.
Support from Neighboring Teeth
Bonded bridges get support from neighboring teeth. That creates a tighter bond and a better fit.
The secure fit also benefits the other teeth. It preserves their structure and health.
Alternative to Root Canals
Two of the most dreaded words in dentistry are "root canals."
Bridges are effective alternative dental solutions. They're non-invasive, non-toxic, and have fewer risks.
Cost-Effective
Dental care was the
most commonly skipped medical procedure
due to cost in 2022. 21% of Americans avoided it. That put it behind doctor's visits at 16%, prescriptions at 10%, follow-ups at 10%, and mental health or counseling at 10%.
Bonded dental bridges are cost-effective. They're cheaper than other teeth replacement options.
Increased Self-Confidence
What's worse than empty space from a missing tooth? A tooth replacement option that sticks out like a sore thumb.
Bonded bridges are made to match the color of your neighboring teeth. They keep other teeth from shifting, maintaining the positioning of your smile. This also maintains the shape of your face and jaw.
You'll avoid any embarrassing changes in speech. Front teeth tend to cause a whistle or lisp sound or make your speech unclear.
Restored Chewing Function
You may lose a single tooth and think that it won't have much of an effect on your daily diet. Try eating without it and you'll realize how much of an impact it makes.
A dental bridge will help restore your normal chewing function. You can enjoy all your favorite foods again without pain.
Better Oral Hygiene
Bridges close up any space around the neighboring teeth. This fills any holes food or debris could enter into.
That closure protects the teeth from becoming decayed. It also makes them easier to clean because you won't have hard-to-reach spaces to get into.
Procedure
80% of adults worldwide are uneasy before dental treatment, 20% are scared, and 5% avoid it out of fear.
Knowledge is the best remedy for this unease. Understanding the procedure for placing bonded dental bridges helps you relax by knowing what to expect.
Consultation
The process begins with a consultation. That's where you'll discuss your options with your dentist.
They'll determine if you're a candidate for a bonded dental bridge and whether it's the right option for you. They'll also set up appointments for the rest of the process.
Preparation
You'll need to prepare your mouth for the bridge before it can be placed. The dentist may need to remove a small amount of enamel from the surrounding teeth to make space for it.
The bridge should be perfectly fit to your mouth. This requires taking impressions of your teeth and sending them to a laboratory. You may get a temporary bridge until the final one is ready.
Fitting, Bonding, and Final Adjustments
Once the final bridge comes back from the lab, you'll need to have it fitted. The dentist will place it and make adjustments to ensure the right fit, comfort, and appearance.
The dentist then bonds the bridge to the adjacent teeth with dental cement.
They'll take one final check of your bite. It needs to be balanced for proper alignment. There also can't be too much stress on the bridge or your natural teeth. They'll make any final adjustments if necessary.
Recovery
Recovery from a dental bridge depends on the person. It takes one to two weeks for your gums to fully heal from the procedure. It can take a bit longer for you to get used to it.
There are side effects to look out for. Call your dentist if you notice:
- Pain while chewing
- Teeth sensitivity
- Sore, bleeding gums
- Looseness or cracks in the bridge
- Persistent pain or discomfort around the bridge
Most bridges can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
Care
Use the
right brushing techniques to clean your natural teeth, and floss to get under the bridge. Use non-abrasive toothpaste, a soft-bristle toothbrush, and anti-microbial mouthwash.
Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the bridge. These include nuts, caramel, or popcorn.
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings. They can also check on the status of the bridge and look for damage.
Researching Local Options
Once you've decided on a bonded bridge, start narrowing down your options for
dentists in the Tarrytown area.
Look at their websites to see what oral health services they offer. Find one with extensive experience in restorative dentistry and bridge surgeries.
Get references and join the
67% of patients
looking for a dentist who checked online reviews. It's the quickest way to gauge their reputation. Visit the office to see if it's a place you feel comfortable in.
Work With a Tarrytown Dentist You Can Bond With
Finding a dentist to install bonded dental bridges is an effective way to fill a spot from a missing tooth.
Broadway Cosmetic Dentistry PC is dedicated to providing the residents of Tarrytown NY with the best dental care using the latest technology. We offer our full range of services from one convenient location.
Request an appointment today.
