Dental Bridges
Lake Oswego, OR
 If you have missing teeth, our dentist at Dental Expressions has a potential solution to bridge your gap with artificial teeth using a dental bridge procedure. Given that you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge may be the best solution for you.
You Can Have A Dental Bridge
Suppose you are missing teeth, your performance may suffer because your teeth work in conjunction with each other to function properly for your use. If you have a missing tooth, the teeth surrounding it may slowly move into the space. When the teeth in your jaw move around it may cause pain, extra stress on your teeth and jaw, bite problems, and chewing difficulties. In the case that you have lost one tooth or more from tooth decay, disease, or an injury, a dental bridge may be the solution your smile needs. As long as you have sturdy teeth on either side of your missing ones you may be eligible for a dental bridge. The best way to figure out your ideal treatment plan is to visit our office and consult with our dental professionals.
Alternatives To a Dental Bridge
Partial dentures are a removable option with prosthetic teeth that can be taken out and cleaned. Dentures are your only choice if you want to be able to remove your teeth. Our dentists may urge you to choose a dental implant instead of a bridge. When you receive a dental implant it will be surgically placed inside your jaw. A lab will create a new set of teeth based on a model of your teeth made by your dentist. Over time the addition will integrate with your jawbone becoming a permanent and durable option. This option does not need to be anchored by other teeth, like dentures.
Types of Dental Bridges
A traditional fixed dental bridge is the most common kind of dental bridge. Once you receive this kind of bridge it may consist of two caps called crowns that may be connected by a replacement tooth called a pontic; this forms your bridge. Crowns cover your teeth and are very important because they keep your bridge in place. When you choose to receive a traditional bridge it may be made of porcelain, metal, or porcelain fused to metal cemented into place.
You may alternatively need a cantilever bridge if you only have teeth on one side of the gap.
In the case that you need an implant-supported bridge, it may be the same as a traditional bridge but may be held in place by implants.
Bridge Procedure
Your dental bridge procedure will take two appointments. During your first appointment, our dentist will reshape your abutment teeth meaning the teeth that may be covered by a cap. By getting a dental bridge you will also be getting dental crowns that require enamel to be removed so that there is enough room for the cap to be placed sturdily. After this, our dentist will take an impression or digital scan of your teeth that will be sent to a dental lab where your bridge may be made. During your next visit, our dentist will cement your bridge into place.
Bridges Can Repair Gaps in Your Teeth
If you are looking to invest in your smile, allow our dentists at Dental Expressions to fill gaps in your smile with a dental bridge. Consult with our experienced dental professionals and find a treatment plan that works for you now by contacting us at (971) 353-4448. |
