Transform Your Smile with Dental Bridges in Shelley

Dental bridges are dental restoration options designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth secured to adjacent natural teeth or implants.

Here’s how dental bridges work:

• Filling the Gap Between Teeth:
  Dental bridges replace missing teeth by filling the gap with a false tooth (pontic) that mimics the natural tooth appearance. The pontic is securely anchored to the adjacent natural teeth, which helps restore a complete smile and proper bite alignment.
• Supporting Adjacent Teeth:
  By anchoring to natural teeth on either side of the gap, dental bridges provide stability. This prevents adjacent teeth from shifting into the space, which could lead to misalignment and bite issues.
• Maintaining Even Load Distribution:
  The bridge procedure involves placing crowns on the adjacent teeth, providing support for the bridge and stability. This reinforcement helps distribute the force of chewing evenly across your teeth, reducing stress on the surrounding natural teeth.
• Enhancing Chewing and Speaking Abilities:
  Dental bridges provide a solid surface to chew on, allowing for normal chewing and digestion. They also fill spaces that might otherwise cause slurred speech, helping improve pronunciation.
• Preserving Facial Shape:
  Dental bridges help maintain the natural shape of your face by filling the gap left by missing teeth. They prevent the sunken appearance that can occur when teeth are missing, preserving a fuller facial structure.

Understanding how dental bridges work can help you appreciate their role in restoring function and appearance to your smile. If you have any questions about this restorative procedure, feel free to contact us or visit our clinic near Willeton.

The process of getting a dental bridge involves multiple steps:

• Initial Appointment and Evaluation:
  During the initial appointment, the dentist will examine your mouth to check the condition of your teeth and gums. They will take X-rays to assess if a dental bridge is suitable for your situation. They will also explain how dental bridges work, discuss various types, and help determine the right option for your needs.
• Teeth Preparation:
  If the dental bridge is deemed appropriate, the adjacent teeth are prepared to support the bridge. This involves reshaping these teeth to fit crowns, which will anchor the bridge securely.
• Impressions and Temporary Bridge:
  Impressions of your teeth are taken to design a custom bridge that matches your natural teeth. A temporary bridge is then fitted to protect the prepared teeth while your new bridge is being made.</li
• Fitting and Placement of the New Bridge:
  Once the new bridge is ready, you’ll return for fitting and cementing. The dentist will place the bridge, make necessary adjustments, and check that it fits properly for comfort and function. Once all needed adjustments are made, the bridge is cemented on the abutments, and care instructions are given.
• Follow-up and Adjustment:
  A follow-up visit checks that the bridge is aligned and functioning as expected, with adjustments made if necessary.

If you’re looking for high-quality dental bridges in Shelley, book a consultation with us today. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, customising your dental bridge to suit your specific needs and preferences.

Adjusting to a dental bridge can take some time, as your mouth needs to adapt to the new structure. Here’s what to expect:

• First Few Days:
  At first, the bridge may feel unfamiliar in your mouth. You might notice slight discomfort or sensitivity, particularly when eating or speaking. It’s advisable to stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes and soups and chew cautiously during this time.
• Within the First Week:
  As you approach the end of the first week, the bridge usually starts to feel more comfortable. Speaking becomes smoother, and chewing feels less awkward. While sensitivity might still occur, it should gradually decrease.
• Two to Three Weeks:
  Around the two- to three-week mark, the bridge will start to feel more natural. The initial discomfort and sensitivity usually fade away, allowing you to eat a broader range of foods without issue.
• One Month and Later:
  After about a month, the dental bridge should feel like a natural part of your mouth. By this time, you will also be fully accustomed to how dental bridges work and their role in your daily routine. Any remaining discomfort should be minimal.

If any discomfort or issues persist, it’s important to consult your dentist. At Willeri Dental Parkwood, daily emergency appointments are available for patients needing immediate attention for unexpected dental issues near Shelley. Contact our emergency hotline: 08 9457 8360 to receive timely assistance.

Caring for your dental bridge is essential to its longevity and maintaining your oral health. Here are some dental bridge maintenance tips:

• Brush Twice Daily:
  Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean both your teeth and the bridge gently. Pay special attention to the bridge area to remove plaque and food debris that could cause decay in the supporting teeth.
• Floss Daily:
  Use a floss threader or special dental floss designed for bridges to clean under the bridge and around the supporting teeth.
• Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash:
  Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash daily to help reduce plaque and bacteria buildup around your bridge and natural teeth.
• Avoid Hard Foods:
  Try to avoid chewing on hard items like ice, nuts, or hard candies, which can crack or dislodge the bridge.
• Regular Dental Check-ups:
  As part of your dental bridge maintenance, you should see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Doing so helps keep your bridge and the supporting teeth healthy and allows any potential issues to be identified early.

With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can last over 10 years. Their longevity depends on various factors, including:

• Oral Hygiene:
  Regular brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup around the bridge, lowering the risk of decay in the supporting teeth.
• Diet and Eating Habits:
  Avoiding hard and sticky foods like nuts and toffees can prevent damage or dislodgement of the bridge. Opt for a balanced diet to support the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
• Routine Dental Visits:
  Going to the dentist for regular dental check-ups and cleanings is essential for dental bridge maintenance. It not only monitors the condition of your bridge but also the health of your supporting teeth. Your dentist can detect early signs of wear, damage, or decay and address them promptly.
• Habits and Lifestyle:
  Habits like teeth grinding or clenching can shorten the life of a dental bridge. Using a nightguard can protect your bridge from the excessive pressure caused by grinding, especially during sleep.

The cost of dental bridges can vary significantly, and several factors influence the final price:

• Bridge Type:
  Different types of bridges come with different price tags. For example, a single bridge can cost up to $1,800 per tooth. On the other hand, a two-tooth cantilever bridge with a crown can run up to $4,540.
• Choice of Material:
  The choice of materials impacts the cost of dental bridges. Porcelain or ceramic bridges, for instance, tend to be pricier than metal or resin due to their natural look and durability.
• Extent of Replacement:
  The price increases with the number of teeth replaced. Hence, bridges that cover larger gaps and require more materials and time to create cost more.
• Dentist’s Experience:
  The level of skill and reputation of the dentist can affect the price. More experienced dentists may charge higher fees, reflecting their know-how and the quality of the outcome.
• Location of the Clinic:
  Usually, clinics in urban areas have higher prices than those in more rural regions. This is often due to their higher overhead expenses, including rent, utilities, and staffing costs.

For an estimated quotation on dental bridges near Shelley, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re available to provide a detailed breakdown based on your specific needs.

Whether your health fund covers the cost of dental bridges depends on your specific policy. Dental bridges are often classified under major dental services, so it’s important to understand what your plan entails. Here are the steps to determine dental bridge inclusion with your health fund:

• Examine Your Policy Details:
  Begin by carefully reviewing your health fund policy. Look for sections about major dental services or restorative treatments to see if dental bridges are listed as a covered service.
• Speak with Your Health Fund Provider:
  Contact your health fund directly for detailed information. Ask about specific cover for dental bridges, including any waiting periods, exclusions, or annual limits.
• Obtain a Treatment Plan from Your Dentist:
  Request a comprehensive treatment plan and cost estimate from your dentist. You can then submit it to your health fund to determine how much, if any, of the cost will be covered.

A dental bridge not only restores your smile but also significantly enhances your overall oral health in the following ways:

• Prevents Teeth Shifting:
  A dental bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth, preventing neighbouring teeth from shifting out of alignment. This helps maintain a balanced bite and reduces the risk of misalignment issues.
• Enhances Chewing Function:
  Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge improves your ability to chew food properly. This helps keep your diet varied and nutritious, promoting better overall health.
• Reduces Jaw Strain:
  Filling gaps in your mouth with a bridge helps distribute the forces of your bite evenly. This reduces strain on your jaw muscles and joints, lowering the risk of discomfort.
• Supports Speech Clarity:
  Missing teeth can impact your speech, making it hard to pronounce certain words. A dental bridge helps restore normal speech patterns by providing a complete set of teeth, aiding in clearer articulation.
• Prevents Bone Loss:
  Dental bridges fill gaps left by missing teeth, stimulating the jawbone and reducing the risk of bone deterioration over time.

There are several alternatives to dental bridges for replacing missing teeth, each with unique benefits and considerations. Depending on individual needs, patients can choose from the following options:

• Dental Implants:
  Dental implants offer a durable option for replacing missing teeth. The procedure involves surgically inserting a titanium post into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the artificial tooth. Unlike bridges, implants don’t rely on neighbouring teeth for support or stability. However, they require enough bone density and take longer to heal after placement.
• Removable Dentures:
  Removable dentures are a non-invasive option for replacing multiple missing teeth. They rest on the gums and can be easily taken out for cleaning. Unlike bridges and implants, removable dentures are not anchored and may require adjustments over time. While generally more affordable, they do not offer the same level of stability or comfort as dental implants or bridges.
• Implant-Supported Bridges:
  Implant-supported bridges combine the advantages of dental implants and traditional bridges. Instead of relying on natural teeth, they use dental implants as anchors. This approach offers greater stability compared to removable dentures and helps preserve jawbone health. However, it requires surgical placement, similar to the process for single dental implants.

To determine which tooth replacement option is right for you, consult with us. Our clinic near Shelley is open to provide personalised guidance and support tailored to your situation.