How Teeth Can be Replaced with Dental Bridges

For many people missing one or more of their permanent adult teeth, the possibility of improving the look of their smile may feel entirely hopeless. Those same people may also be pleased to learn about the possibility of having a dental bridge placed where the missing tooth once was. Bridges are safe, non-invasive, virtually painless, and mimic the look of natural teeth almost imperceptibly and will also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting toward the open gap.

There are many different types of bridges, but all of them do the same thing – using the support of surrounding structures already existing in the mouth, they suspend one or more false teeth in place, right where the original one or row used to be. The new tooth, called a pontic, can be supported by any of a number of different things, all termed abutments in this context. The most common kind of bridge traditionally administered is affixed to two sturdy, healthy teeth on either side; the pontic is surrounded by two crowns, which, after sculpting down the two real teeth on either side to accommodate the size of the fixture, will be placed over top; this means of tooth replacement is strong enough even to hold fully-functioning molars into place. Cantilever bridges are exactly the same as regular ones, the sole difference being the face that there is only an abutment on one side. The preparation and placement process is identical, but it not a reliable enough option to take the place of load-bearing teeth. Maryland bridges are braced on either side from behind the two abutments, meaning no enamel will need to be removed to make room for two crowns. Again, this method isn’t as reliable as a traditional bridge, but may be suited to some cases. Implant-supported bridges are the final and most drastic measure to be taken when it comes to replacing multiple teeth at once through these means. In cases where there are several consecutive teeth missing in a row, our dentist may elect to only place implants at either extreme, saving your gums and mouth the damage and disruption so many implants at once may cause. Between these two implants is one or more pontics, the same as any other bridge. This option is quite time-consuming and may take months or more the finally achieve your final desired result. It is, however, a strong enough restorative fixture to hold up under the duress that molars endure.

There is no reason not to seek a replacement for any teeth you happen to be missing – from an uninformed perspective, the task may seem daunting and too expensive to consider, but recent breakthroughs in dental and orthodontic technology have made the procedure less dangerous and more affordable than ever before.

When Should Dental Implants Not be Used?

The loss of a tooth completely can be traumatic, and the condition comes with many negative consequences, both cosmetic and medical. To avoid any undesired changes in the geography of the mouth as a result of the gap or gaps left behind, it is imperative that anybody who is missing a tooth seeks some means of replacing it professionally. Dental implants are one viable option, allowing your implant dentist in Beverly Hills to restore your full smile without the need for secondary supporting fixtures. While most patients who have one or more adult teeth missing will qualify, there are more than a few eligibility factors that one should be aware of.

Good health, not only in the mouth, but also in the entire body, is an absolute must. An implant is a fully surgical procedure, requiring your dentist to embed the supporting base directly into the bone, which eventually will be covered by a dental crown bearing a false tooth. If there is any  sort of hygienic or medical dysfunction present in the patient’s mouth, especially in the area where the procedure would be taking place, it is highly advised that those issues be contended with first before more work is done; any inflammation present in the gums will hinder the healing process significantly, and the same can be said for poor health elsewhere in the body, as well. The best way to ensure the success of your new implant is to give it the most opportune environment possible to thrive in right off the bat.

Good habits are an absolute must; this includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash daily. A patient who is either unwilling or unable to properly maintain their oral health and cleanliness is generally not seen as a good candidate for dental implants; a commitment to not only your regular schedule of dental appointments and exams but also to any additional office visits your new implant may require is also vital; this will allow your dentist to diagnose and rectify any potential complications which may arise down the road. Patients who struggle with jaw-clenching or teeth-grinding are advised to seek alternative options, as these tendencies put undue amounts of pressure on implants and may cause them to fail.

The last qualifier would be whether or not the patient has adequately dense bones to support something as intrusive as an implant. For those whose bones are not suitable to support an embedded implant, a better option may be to have the implant placed onto the surface of the bone instead.

Dental Implant Options

Portriat of a healthy, happy senior couple in love.

Are you missing one, two or all of your teeth? There are multiple teeth replacement options available to you. Talk to our dental implant dentist in Northridge about your smile. We can recommend the appropriate restoration treatment for you so you can smile with confidence. Here are the types of dental implants available.

 

 

A single tooth implant is a traditional replacement option where a single tooth can be replaced, which is often done over multiple visits. The implant acts as a substitute to a natural tooth root. This is done with or without a built-in connector placed on or built into the top of the implant. The implant will attach to the replacement tooth. A temporary tooth can be used in its place while the implant integrates with your natural bone to form a strong foundation, much like a natural tooth root.

 

 

When it comes to replacing multiple teeth, dental implants with individual crowns or an implant-supported fixed bridge can help. It gives your teeth a level of fit, feel and functionality that is not possible with other restoration options. This option is done over multiple visits. Much like a single tooth implant, the multiple teeth dental implants will be used to support your replacement teeth. Temporary teeth can be used while the implant forms to the natural bone and builds a strong foundation.

 

 

Full mouth implants, or a full arch is also an option if you are missing all of your teeth. Dental implants will be used to support your replacement teeth on both the upper and lower jaws. The connectors are placed on or built into the top of the implant, which will help connect the replacement teeth. The placement of the implants is custom-made individual replacements, or implant-supported fixed bridges, or implant-supported overdenture.

 

 

There is also a low-cost alternative to dental implants called a removable denture. This is an appliance that sits on top of the gums where the missing teeth were. But this option does come with its downfalls. It can be uncomfortable and affect the ability to experience the full taste of food. It can also cause sore gums among other issues.

 

 

Make sure to talk to our dentist if you need to replace one or more teeth. We can match you with the appropriate treatment to improve your smile. With each replacement option, most people return to work the next day, and any discomfort can be treated with pain medication. Schedule a consultation with us today.