A dental bridge is a vital dental restoration that East Hills Dental Associates uses to replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. A dental bridge will “bridge the gap” and restore your dental health and function. We offer several types of bridges including fixed or removable. A bridge can attach to adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants. If you have one or several missing teeth, Dr. Sousa will provide you with a custom dental bridge in Roslyn Heights, NY.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a great way to replace one or several missing consecutive teeth. East Hills Dental Associates can create a custom set of false teeth that fills the gap left by the missing teeth.
The custom bride we create for your oral structure will attach to dental crowns on the teeth next to the gap. These teeth are the abutment teeth. Dr. Sousa can also secure your bridge to dental implants.
The makeup of a bridge includes crowns and pontics fused together to create a single prosthesis. The crown portion of the bridge will attach to abutment teeth or dental implants to firmly secure the restoration.
This solution restores your smile, improves your ability to chew, and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting. Dental bridges are the most reliable and effective way to achieve a complete and healthy-looking smile.
Importance of Replacing Teeth
Missing teeth are more than a cosmetic problem, they also lead to a range of complex problems affecting your dental and overall health. When you lose a tooth, the root is no longer healthy and does not support bone tissue around it.
This causes changes in the fit of the bite, the shape of the jaw and allows the remaining teeth to shift. Patients with missing teeth are at a much greater risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay as changes occur in the mouth.
If you have missing teeth, Dr. Sousa can help you restore a natural-looking and comfortable smile with a dental bridge, dental implants, or implant-supported bridge. Dr. Sousa works with patients as individuals, taking the time to thoroughly evaluate their oral health needs and understand their goals before recommending the best solution.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dr. Sousa will recommend the use of a fixed bridge whenever appropriate for the best result. A fixed bridge will give you back a secure, permanent smile that enables you to eat and speak with confidence. Dental bridges are a restorative dentistry procedure that Dr. Sousa provides to his patients in Long Island, New York. We offer several types of fixed bridges including:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common types of bridges. They use dental crowns and a pontic (false tooth) to fill the gap.
- Cantilever Bridges: Similar to a traditional bridge, Dr. Sousa will use a cantilever bridge when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth.
- Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, Dr. Sousa will bond a Maryland bridge to the back of existing teeth using metal or porcelain wings.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: This type of bridge is the most life-like and durable bridge. Dr. Sousa will insert at least two dental implants into the jaw bone, which he will use to support the custom bridge. These bridges are the most stable and secure solution.
About Dental Bridges in Roslyn Heights NY
We can custom fabricate your dental restoration in our on-site lab using the highest standard of materials for the best possible result. We offer a consistency of care not found in most other dental offices for restoring beauty and function to your smile.
The process for replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge will vary, depending on the method of attachment chosen. If we are anchoring your new bridge to existing teeth, we will place dental crowns first to provide greater stability.
If you choose to secure your bridge with dental implants, Dr. Sousa will surgically place the implants posts first. You will need to wait several months to allow the implants to heal and fuse to your surrounding jaw bone. Once the implants are ready, we will create and secure the custom dental bridge to the dental implants.
Our staff makes every effort to ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed and each visit with us. We take the time to get to know you and offer personalized compassionate dental care tailored to your specific needs.
How Do We Attach A Dental Bridge?
The attachment procedure usually takes two or three appointments to complete. At the first appointment, Dr. Sousa will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin.
When the teeth are ready, we will take impressions of your teeth. In our in-house dental lab, we will fabricate your new dental bridge to fit precisely. This exact fit will ensure you have a good bite and your new false teeth will match the opposing teeth.
Fixed bridges are typically cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth. Crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth, provide support for the bridge.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Discover the answers to your questions about dental bridges here. Our comprehensive FAQ section is designed to guide you and provide clear and concise information. Please read through the most popular FAQs to learn more about this effective tooth replacement option and take the first step toward a confident smile.
What are dental bridges made of?
Our office creates dental bridges from a variety of materials. The most common types include gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Porcelain is often bonded to either precious or non-precious metal.
How do I take care of my bridge?
A strict oral hygiene regimen is necessary to properly care for your bridge. This includes daily brushing and flossing to keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. This is of critical importance as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support. Not taking good care of your teeth may result in damage that will require extensive dental work.
What happens if you get a cavity under a bridge?
Unfortunately, the support teeth with the crowns are still susceptible to decay and other dental problems. If this happens, Dr. Sousa will need to remove the bridge in order to treat the tooth decay. In some cases, we can use the same crown but this depends on the extent of the damage and where the tooth is inside your mouth. The best thing you can do to avoid this issue is to take very good care of your teeth and gums.
Can I get a new dental bridge if mine is damaged?
Dr. Sousa can replace your dental bridge if your current one is damaged or worn out. He will assess the damage and create a new custom-made bridge to ensure a perfect fit and restore your smile. It is vital to address any issues with your bridge right away. A damaged bridge can negatively affect your oral health. Replacing it as soon as possible will help to maintain your oral health.
Will my dental bridge look natural?
Yes, Dr. Sousa designs and creates dental bridges from dental impressions to look as natural as possible. He will match the color and shape of your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless blend. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, your dental bridge will maintain its natural appearance and function for years.