More than 120 million Americans are missing teeth, a staggering statistic that highlights the importance of having accessible restorative dentistry options that fit every need and budget. A missing tooth creates a gap that does more than just affect your smile; these gaps can change how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself when looking in the mirror. Missing teeth can also lead to the shifting of remaining teeth and bone loss in your jaw.
A dental bridge offers a reliable solution to restore both function and appearance. This fixed prosthetic bridges the gap created by missing teeth, giving you back a complete smile.
Read on to learn more about dental bridges, if they’re a good option for you, and where to find the best dental bridge in Los Gatos.
What is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic that replaces one or more missing teeth by literally bridging the gap they leave behind. The bridge uses your natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the space as anchors. There are four main types to choose from:
- Traditional bridges: These bridges use crowns on teeth on both sides of the gap
- Cantilever bridges: This type of bridge anchors to just one side, making them good for areas with less chewing pressure
- Maryland bonded bridges: These bridges attach using a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of neighboring teeth
- Implant-supported bridges: This type of bridge connects to dental implants for maximum stability and bone preservation
Getting a bridge typically requires two or more dental visits. The first visit is to prepare the anchor teeth and take dental impressions. At the second appointment, your dentist can place the custom-made bridge permanently in your mouth. Once in place, a well-made bridge restores your complete smile and enables you to maintain proper chewing and speaking.
Is Getting a Dental Bridge Right for Me?
You might be an excellent candidate for a dental bridge if:
- You're missing one or more teeth in the same area of your mouth
- Have strong, healthy teeth on either side to support the structure
Good oral hygiene habits are also essential if you’re thinking about getting a dental bridge, as you'll need to care for your bridge properly to ensure its longevity.
Bridges particularly benefit people who:
- Struggle with chewing food comfortably
- Have difficulty pronouncing certain words clearly
- Feel self-conscious about visible gaps in their smile
They're also recommended when there's a risk of your remaining teeth gradually shifting into empty spaces, which can create bite problems over time.
While bridges are an effective solution, they aren't your only option. Dental implants offer a more permanent alternative for replacing individual teeth without affecting adjacent ones, while partial dentures provide a removable and typically less expensive solution that some patients prefer. A restorative dentist can help determine which option best suits your specific dental needs and lifestyle.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant: Which is Better?
When choosing between dental bridges and implants, there are a few things you should consider:
- Cost: Bridges typically offer a more budget-friendly option upfront, while implants can cost slightly more.
- Longevity: The cost difference between bridges and implants balances out over time when considering the longevity of each. Bridges generally last five to 15 years before needing replacement, whereas properly maintained implants can last 15-20 years, and in many cases, a lifetime.
- Dental visits and invasiveness: The procedures between these two restorative treatment options also differ in complexity and recovery time. Getting a bridge usually requires just two or three dental visits over a few weeks, with minimal discomfort and quick adjustment. In contrast, implants involve surgical placement of titanium posts into your jawbone, followed by a healing period of three to six months before the final tooth is attached. Overall, bridges offer a faster, less invasive solution that works well for many patients, especially those with health conditions that might complicate oral surgery.
The best option for you ultimately depends on your specific dental situation, budget, overall health, and personal preferences.
Benefits of Getting a Dental Bridge
There are several notable benefits of getting a dental bridge if you are missing a tooth:
- A dental bridge dramatically improves your daily life by restoring normal oral function, allowing you to chew foods properly again and speak clearly without whistling or slurring certain sounds.
- Dental bridges evenly distribute the pressure when you bite, protecting your remaining natural teeth from excessive strain that could lead to damage.
- Aesthetically, bridges transform your appearance by filling unsightly gaps with natural-looking replacements.
- Modern dental materials that bridges are made from can be precisely matched to your existing teeth's color, shape, and size, making it difficult for others to tell which teeth aren't natural.
- Beyond looks and function, bridges play a crucial role in maintaining your overall oral health by preventing neighboring teeth from gradually tilting or drifting into empty spaces, which would create alignment problems and potential bite issues.
- Bridges also help preserve facial structure and minimize the risk of gum disease that can develop in the exposed spaces between teeth.
How to Care for Your Dental Bridge
Maintaining your dental bridge requires dedicated daily care to ensure its longevity and prevent complications. Here are a few important steps to keep in mind:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying special attention to the area where your bridge meets your gums.
- Since traditional flossing can be challenging around bridges, invest in special cleaning tools like floss threaders, interdental brushes, or a water flosser to effectively remove food particles and plaque from underneath and around your bridge.
- Attend dental check-ups every six months so your dentist can professionally clean hard-to-reach areas and examine your bridge for any signs of wear, damage, or gum problems before they become serious issues.
- Be mindful of your diet choices. Avoid extremely sticky foods like caramel or taffy that might pull at your bridge, and be cautious with hard foods like nuts or ice that could potentially damage it. A nutritious, balanced diet will help maintain the health of your supporting teeth and gums, further protecting your investment in your restored smile.
Wondering where you can find the Best Dental Bridges in Los Gatos?
At Smiles Los Gatos, we understand that missing teeth affect more than just your smile; they impact your daily life, from eating comfortably to speaking with confidence. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering dental bridges that look natural, feel secure, and function just like your own teeth.
Our team of skilled restorative dental professionals takes the time to listen to your needs and customize every dental bridge to ensure your smile is complete and as natural-looking as possible. With advanced technology and precise techniques, we create restorative dental solutions that seamlessly restore your smile while enhancing your overall oral health.
Ready to bring confidence back to your smile with the best dental bridges in Los Gatos?