Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. At Bakery Hill Dental in Australia, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality Dental bridge services to restore your smile and improve your oral health. This article aims to give you a comprehensive understanding of dental bridges, their benefits, the procedure, and why choosing Bakery Hill Dental for your dental bridge needs is a wise decision.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to fill the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth, and a false tooth or teeth in between, known as pontics. These pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported either by natural teeth or by dental implants.
Types of Dental Bridges
1. Traditional Dental Bridges
These are the most common type, involving the creation of a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. Traditional bridges are usually made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
2. Cantilever Bridges
These are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. Cantilever bridges are not as common today and are typically used in areas of the mouth that are under less stress, such as the front teeth.
3. Maryland Bonded Bridges
Also known as a resin-bonded bridge, these are made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal, supported by a framework. The framework has metal or porcelain wings on either side, which are bonded to your existing teeth.
4. Implant-Supported Bridges
These bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but they are supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth. This type of bridge is often used when more than one tooth is missing.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
1. Restores Your Smile
Dental bridges help to restore your smile and the natural appearance of your teeth, giving you the confidence to smile freely.
2. Improves Chewing and Speaking
Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food properly and can affect your speech. Dental bridges help to restore these functions, making it easier to eat and talk.
3. Maintains Facial Structure
Gaps from missing teeth can cause your facial structure to change over time. Dental bridges help maintain the shape of your face, preventing a sunken appearance.
4. Prevents Teeth from Shifting
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can move into the empty space, causing misalignment. Dental bridges prevent this by filling the gap, maintaining proper alignment.
5. Durable and Long-Lasting
With proper care, dental bridges can last many years, providing a durable solution to missing teeth.
The Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge
1. Initial Consultation
The process begins with a thorough examination by your dentist at Bakery Hill Dental. This includes taking X-rays and impressions of your teeth to determine the best type of bridge for your needs.
2. Preparation
During the next visit, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them.
3. Impressions
Impressions of the teeth are taken to create a model, which is used to fabricate the bridge, pontic, and crowns in a dental lab.
4. Temporary Bridge
A temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is being made.
5. Fitting the Permanent Bridge
Once the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is checked and adjusted for proper fit. Multiple visits may be necessary to ensure the bridge fits comfortably.
6. Cementation
The bridge is permanently cemented into place once the fit is perfect, providing a strong and stable solution to missing teeth.
Why Choose Bakery Hill Dental?
1. Expertise and Experience
Our team of highly skilled dentists has extensive experience in fitting dental bridges, ensuring the best possible results for our patients.
2. State-of-the-Art Technology
We use the latest dental technology and materials to create durable and natural-looking bridges, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics.
3. Patient-Centered Care
At Bakery Hill Dental, patient comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities. We take the time to explain every step of the procedure and address any concerns you may have, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
4. Comprehensive Dental Services
In addition to dental bridges, we offer a wide range of dental services to meet all your oral health needs, from preventive care to advanced restorative treatments.
5. Convenient Location
Located in the heart of Australia, Bakery Hill Dental is easily accessible, making it convenient for you to get the dental care you need.
Maintaining Your Dental Bridge
Proper oral hygiene is crucial to ensure the longevity of your dental bridge. Here are some tips to help you maintain your bridge:
1. Brush and Floss Daily
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from around the bridge.
2. Use an Antiseptic Mouthwash
Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and keep your mouth clean.
3. Regular Dental Checkups
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings to ensure your bridge and overall oral health are in good condition.
4. Avoid Hard Foods
Avoid biting down on hard foods like ice or hard candy, which can damage your bridge.
Conclusion
A dental bridge is a reliable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both functionality and aesthetics to your smile. At Bakery Hill Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality dental bridge services tailored to meet your specific needs. With our experienced team, advanced technology, and patient-centered approach, you can trust us to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re considering a dental bridge, contact Bakery Hill Dental today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a better smile.