Dental Bridges
Dental bridges get their name because they "bridge the gap" created by missing teeth. On both ends of a dental bridge, anchoring it in place, are crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap. The middle of the bridge contains one or more false teeth made from metal, porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. Los Angeles patients choose dental bridges to restore their ability to chew and speak, prevent teeth from moving out of alignment, and create a more attractive smile.
Your dental bridge can greatly improve the appearance and functionality of your smile, and even some cosmetic dentists in Los Angeles might not be able to tell you've had work done without close examination.
The Beverly Hills practice of dentist / periodontist Dr. Alex A. Farnoosh offers many procedures to improve your Total Smile. Schedule an appointment or call 310.657.0503 to set up a consultation and learn more about your options. To help make your procedure affordable, Dr. Farnoosh offers several convenient financing options through leading healthcare credit companies.
Types of Dental Bridges Available
Three types of bridges are offered. Traditional bridges are used where there are two anchor teeth with one or more missing teeth in between. Or, if there is an adjacent tooth on only one side of a gap (for instance, in the back of the mouth), your dentist is able to place a cantilever bridge to secure the replacement teeth. Last, for patients who prefer a conservative approach to tooth replacement that involves minimal modification of existing teeth, a Maryland bonded bridge can be placed. This bridge is made of plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal framework.
A Beverly Hills Dentist for Your Procedure
Like the dental crown procedure and most Beverly Hills dental implant work, installing a bridge requires two office visits. During your first visit, the anchor teeth are prepared, impressions are taken to help model the bridge, and a temporary bridge is installed that protects the exposed teeth and gums. Your permanent bridge is crafted by a dental laboratory based on the impressions taken and the material chosen. At your second visit, the temporary bridge is replaced with the permanent bridge and a proper fit is ensured. An additional visit or two may be needed so your dentist can check the fit of the bridge before permanently cementing it in place.
Care for Your Dental Bridge
Dental bridges can last five to seven years or even longer with proper care, good oral hygiene, and regular visits to a dental professional. The key to dental bridge longevity is maintaining strong and healthy anchor teeth through brushing, flossing, and eating a balanced diet. If your dental bridge becomes loose or needs repair, contact your dentist as soon as possible, since delay may cause gum infection or create other dental heath issues requiring additional treatment.
Dr. Farnoosh is an experienced cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles and also works closely with other dental professionals for your comprehensive treatment. After evaluating your smile and determining the services you need, he may refer you to a team member specialist who is an expert in a particular area of dental care so that you are able to receive the best treatment for your Total Smile.
