The first dental bridges were used over 2,500 years ago in ancient Etruria.
The journey to a renewed smile with dental bridges begins with a comprehensive consultation and examination. During this initial appointment, Dr. Anthony Nguyen at ARTSCI Dental will assess your oral health, discuss your dental history, and evaluate the specific gap or gaps that need bridging. This step is crucial as it allows the dentist to determine the most suitable type of bridge for your unique situation.
Factors such as the location of the missing teeth, the condition of the adjacent teeth, and your overall oral health will be considered. Digital impressions or X-rays may be taken to provide a detailed view of your mouth's structure, ensuring a precise and tailored treatment plan.
Once a treatment plan is established, the next step involves preparing the abutment teeth. These are the teeth adjacent to the gap that will support the bridge. Dr. Nguyen will carefully reshape these teeth by removing a portion of enamel to accommodate the crowns that will be placed over them. This process is done with precision and care to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
After the teeth are prepared, impressions of your teeth are taken to create a model. This model is sent to a dental laboratory where your custom bridge, pontics, and crowns are crafted. Meanwhile, a temporary bridge may be placed to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
Once your custom bridge is ready, you'll return to ARTSCI Dental for the fitting and placement.
During this appointment, Dr. Nguyen will remove the temporary bridge and fit the new permanent bridge. He will check the fit, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your bite is correct.
Once you and the dentist are satisfied with the fit, the bridge is cemented into place. This step is crucial as it ensures the bridge is secure and comfortable, restoring both function and appearance. Proper care and maintenance of your new bridge will be discussed to ensure longevity and optimal oral health.
One of the most immediate benefits of dental bridges is the restoration of your smile. Missing teeth can significantly impact your self-esteem and willingness to smile. Dental bridges fill these gaps, providing a natural-looking solution that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth. This restoration not only improves your appearance but also boosts your confidence, allowing you to smile freely and engage in social interactions without hesitation.
Dental bridges play a crucial role in restoring the functionality of your mouth. Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. By filling these gaps, bridges help distribute the forces in your bite evenly, allowing you to chew food more effectively and speak clearly. This improvement in oral functionality contributes to better digestion and overall health, as you can enjoy a wider variety of foods without discomfort or difficulty.
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment and bite issues. Dental bridges prevent this shifting by maintaining the natural position of your teeth. This not only preserves the alignment of your teeth but also helps prevent potential complications such as jaw pain and temporomandibular joint disorders. By choosing dental bridges, you're investing in the long-term health and stability of your smile.
Porcelain is often used for dental bridges due to its natural tooth-like appearance.