Achieve a Beautiful Smile with Dental Bridges in Lynwood

Dental bridges are a restorative dental treatment designed to replace one or more missing teeth. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how dental bridges work:

• Replace missing teeth:
  Dental bridges fill the gap created by spaced teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics. The artificial teeth used blend smoothly with your natural teeth, giving a cohesive look.
• Support from adjacent teeth:
  The bridge relies on the strength of adjacent teeth for stability. These supporting teeth, called abutments, are either natural or reinforced by custom-made dental crowns. They help hold the bridge securely in place.
• Improving chewing and speech:
  Missing teeth can lead to difficulties in chewing and speaking. Dental bridges restore these functions by providing a stable surface that mimics natural teeth, helping you eat and speak with ease.
• Prevent shifting:
  Spaced teeth can cause surrounding teeth to shift out of position if dental treatment is neglected. Dental bridges help support proper alignment by preventing unwanted movement of your remaining natural teeth.
• Enhance appearance:
  Dental bridges not only improve the appearance of teeth but also prevent facial sagging that can occur due to tooth loss. They fill the gaps left by missing teeth, providing structural support and restoring your natural smile.

By opting for this dental procedure, patients can restore both function and aesthetics effectively. If you’re looking for high-quality dental bridges in Lynwood, book an appointment with Willeri Dental Parkwood today. We are committed to delivering exceptional care tailored to your dental needs.

The process for getting a dental bridge involves multiple steps, offering an effective treatment that restores both function and appearance. Here’s what usually happens:

• Initial consultation and examination:
  During this visit, the dentist evaluates the spacing between teeth, the condition of the adjacent teeth, and overall oral health. X-rays and scans may be taken to assess whether a dental bridge is the right option. Your dentist will also explain how dental bridges work and what to expect during the procedure and recovery.
• Preparation of adjacent teeth:
  The dentist prepares the adjacent teeth (called abutments) by reshaping them. These teeth are reduced to create space for dental crowns, which will support the bridge. This step is critical for achieving a snug and secure fit for the bridge.
• Impressions and temporary bridge:
  Once the teeth are prepared, impressions are taken to create a custom-fit bridge. While it is crafted in the laboratory, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth and gums.
• Fitting and Installation of the New Bridge:
  During the next appointment, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and fits the new one. Adjustments are made to achieve a comfortable fit and bite. The shade is checked so the bridge matches your natural teeth. Then, the bridge is finally cemented in place.
• Final adjustments and follow-up:
  After the new bridge is placed, the dentist checks if it aligns properly with your bite. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to keep track of the bridge’s fit and function.

The time it takes to adjust to a dental bridge differs for every individual. Here’s what to expect:

• First few days:
  Right after the dental bridge is placed, you may feel some discomfort or sensitivity in the abutment teeth and surrounding gums. This is normal as your mouth adjusts to the new bridge. Chewing may feel slightly awkward, and you might need to stick to soft foods like soups and mashed potatoes for comfort.
• One to two weeks:
  After the initial adjustment, your bite will start to feel more natural. As you get used to how dental bridges work, your speech may improve, and you’ll find it easier to eat normally. During this phase, the bridge aligns with your healthy teeth, closing the gaps caused by tooth loss effectively.
• Three to four weeks:
  By the end of the first month, many people feel fully accustomed to their dental bridge. The tooth structure restored by the bridge should feel like a natural part of your smile. Any initial discomfort will subside, and your treatment goals, such as improved function and a happier smile, will be noticeable.

Overall, the adjustment period can take around three to four weeks. If you have any questions about dental bridges, feel free to reach out to us. Our dental team near Lynwood is ready to answer your concerns and provide professional advice.

Proper care for your dental bridge is vital not only to its longevity but also to your oral health. Here are some important oral hygiene practices to follow for ongoing dental bridge maintenance:

• Brush twice daily:
  Brush your teeth, including the dental bridge, at least two times a day with fluoride toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and prevent tooth decay on your remaining natural teeth and around the bridge.
• Floss daily:
  Special flossing tools like a floss threader can help you clean under the bridge. Proper flossing prevents plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas, which can cause gum disease or decay around the abutment teeth.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash:
  Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce bacteria in the mouth and keeps it fresh and clean.
• Visit your dentist regularly:
  Schedule routine check-ups every six months. Professional cleanings and exams are vital to preventative care and monitoring the condition of your bridge to catch any issues early.
• Avoid hard foods:
  Refrain from biting on hard foods like hard candy or nuts that can damage the bridge. Instead, eat softer foods like soups and yoghurt to help prolong the bridge’s lifespan.

By following these dental bridge maintenance tips, you’ll keep your smile complete, healthy, and strong for years to come.

Dental bridges can last more than 10 years. Several factors contribute to their longevity:

• Oral hygiene practices:
  Consistent brushing and flossing are essential for dental bridge maintenance, helping prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Proper care and oral hygiene keep the surrounding teeth and gums healthy, providing stability for the bridge.
• Material quality:
  Dental bridges are usually made from durable materials like porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of both. These materials are designed to withstand the forces of chewing and daily use, keeping the bridge functional for years.
• Regular dental check-ups:
  Visiting your dentist every six months allows them to monitor the condition of the bridge and surrounding teeth. It helps them detect gum problems or decayed teeth early and recommends timely gum disease treatment and other necessary procedures.
• Avoiding hard foods:
  Biting down on hard foods like ice or nuts can cause damage to the bridge over time. Avoiding such foods protects the bridge from cracks or fractures, contributing to its longevity.
• Proper fit and placement:
  Achieving a precise fit and placement is critical to the success of a dental bridge. A well-fitted bridge effectively fills gaps between teeth. It also distributes chewing forces evenly and protects adjacent teeth from undue stress.

The cost of dental bridges can vary based on several factors, including:

• Type of bridge:
  Different types of bridges have varying price points. A single bridge, for instance, can cost up to $1,800 per tooth. Meanwhile, a two-tooth cantilever bridge with a custom-made dental crown can run up to $4,540.
• Materials used:
  The cost of dental bridges made of high-quality dental crown porcelain or ceramic is higher due to their greater durability and natural appearance. More affordable options, such as metal alloys, provide strength and functionality but may not match the natural teeth as closely.
• Type of Abutment:
  If the treatment requires a dental crown procedure as an abutment compared with the Maryland type, the overall price increases. Crowns protect and strengthen the support of abutment teeth, helping to keep the bridge securely anchored in place.
• Experienced dentists:
  The experience of the dentists can impact the price. Skilled dentists with advanced training may charge more, but they deliver satisfactory outcomes.
• Tooth preparation:
  The condition of the supporting teeth may also affect the price. If tooth preparation requires additional procedures, such as a root canal treatment or dental fillings, the total expense increases.

Our professional team of dentists near Lynwood is ready to help you understand the overall cost of your dental bridge treatment. Contact us today so we can provide you with a detailed estimate.

Dental bridges are often considered part of restorative dentistry, and cover can vary depending on your policy. Here’s what you need to do:

• Review your policy:
  Check your health fund policy’s dental section to see if restorative dentistry or professional teeth replacement is covered. Look for details on major dental work, including bridges.
• Contact your provider:
  Call your health fund to enquire specifically about cover for the cost of dental bridges. Ask about cover limits, waiting periods, and out-of-pocket expenses.
• Get a treatment plan:
  Request a treatment plan from your dentist, outlining the bridge type, cost, and any advanced treatments involved. This document helps you and your health fund determine eligibility.

A dental bridge can enhance not only the appearance of your smile but also your overall oral health. Here’s how:

• Prevents Shifting of Teeth:
  Missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to shift into the space, affecting the alignment of your bite. This can lead to uneven wear on the surface of teeth. A dental bridge helps maintain proper alignment and prevents these issues.
• Improves Chewing:
  When teeth are missing, it can become difficult to chew food effectively. A dental bridge restores your ability to chew properly, distributing pressure evenly across the surface of teeth.
• Improves Speech:
  Missing teeth can alter the way you pronounce certain sounds and cause speech difficulties. By filling in the gaps, a dental bridge helps restore normal speech patterns, allowing you to speak with confidence.
• Promotes Better Oral Hygiene:
  A dental bridge prevents gaps where food and bacteria gather, allowing for more efficient brushing and flossing. Effective care practices like regular cleaning around and under the bridge help lower the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

When dealing with missing teeth, several alternatives to dental bridges can restore function and appearance. Each option has its benefits and suitability depending on the patient’s specific needs:

• Dental Implants:
  Dental implants are a long-term, natural-looking option that replaces the tooth root with a titanium post. Topped with a dental crown, they mimic the look and function of natural teeth. Unlike dental bridges, which use adjacent teeth for support, implants anchor directly into the jawbone, offering more durability.
• Removable Dentures:
  Removable dentures can replace multiple or all missing teeth and are available in both partial and full sets. They are a less invasive treatment compared to implants or bridges but may not feel as secure. However, they can be a more affordable option for some patients.
• Implant-Supported Bridges:
  This alternative combines the benefits of implants and bridges, offering a secure fit and natural appearance. Implant-supported bridges are ideal for individuals missing multiple teeth in a row. However, unlike traditional bridges, they don’t require a temporary crown or impact neighbouring teeth.

Call us or visit our clinic near Lynwood to explore your options for missing teeth. Together, we’ll find the right treatment for you, providing the utmost care throughout the process.