Smile Makeovers with Dental Bridges: Before and After Transformations
Recently lost a tooth and looking for dental bridges in Northlake, IL? Smiles of Northlake recommends exploring teeth replacement options to safeguard against the long-term consequences of tooth loss. Our experienced dentist, Dr. Mansi Mehta, offers a range of treatments, including dental bridges, to help you regain your confident smile.
Understanding Dental Bridges
A dental bridge serves as a lasting remedy featuring synthetic teeth, commonly known as pontics, held in place by the adjacent natural teeth. Ideal for those with partial tooth loss, dental bridges can seamlessly replace up to four consecutive missing teeth. If you’re considering dental bridges near you, Dr. Mansi Mehta is here to help you achieve your desired smile.
Dental Bridge Varieties:
There are multiple dental bridge options for those experiencing tooth loss. Each kind comes with distinct features tailored for various circumstances:
Conventional Bridges:
- Conventional bridges are the most common type of dental bridge.
- They consist of Pontiac teeth supported by two anchor teeth, one on each side of the gap.
- The anchor teeth are prepared and fitted with dental crowns to support the pontic teeth.
- Conventional bridges are ideal if healthy natural teeth are adjacent to the missing tooth gap.
Maryland-Bonded Bridges:
- Maryland-bonded bridges also require two anchor teeth for support.
- Unlike conventional bridges, they do not utilize dental crowns for support.
- Instead, they use porcelain or metal wings to attach to the underside of the anchor teeth.
- Maryland-bonded bridges are a less invasive option that preserves the natural structure of the anchor teeth.
Cantilever Bridges:
- Cantilever bridges are supported by a single anchor tooth, making them suitable for only one adjacent tooth.
- However, they may not be the best for back teeth, as they can exert excessive chewing pressure on a single tooth.
Implant-Supported Bridges:
- Implant-supported bridges are a highly stable and durable option.
- They are supported by tooth implants surgically installed in the jawbone.
- Implant-retained bridges are an excellent choice if you lack natural teeth to support your restorations, and they also help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone atrophy.
What’s Involved in the Dental Bridge Treatment?
If you opt for a dental bridge, here’s a glimpse into the journey ahead during the procedure:
Tooth Preparation:
- After determining your suitability for dental bridges, Dr. Mansi Mehta will schedule you for tooth preparation.
- Tooth preparation involves contouring the adjacent teeth to make room for the dental crowns, which will support the pontic teeth in conventional and Maryland-bonded bridges.
Dental Impressions:
- Once your teeth are reshaped, dental impressions will be taken.
- These impressions serve as the basis for creating custom restorations.
- Dental bridges are usually made from materials such as ceramic, porcelain, a combination of porcelain and metal, or metal alloys, guaranteeing both a realistic look and enduring strength.
Placement of Temporary Restorations:
- Temporary restorations will be placed to protect your prepared teeth. At the same time, the permanent bridges are being fabricated in the dental lab.
Final Fitting:
- On your next visit, Dr. Mansi Mehta will remove the temporary restorations and carefully check the fit and aesthetics of the permanent bridges.
- Once satisfied with the fit and appearance, the dentist will cement the bridges securely to your anchor teeth, revealing your brand-new and improved smile.
If you’re seeking dentist near you in Northlake, IL, Smiles of Northlake and Dr. Mansi Mehta are dedicated to helping you achieve a smile makeover that restores your confidence and oral health. Dental bridges offer an effective solution for partial tooth loss. With various bridge types, you can find the best option to suit your specific needs.
Don’t hesitate to call Smiles of Northlake today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mansi Mehta and take the first step toward your smile transformation. Dental bridges can give you a natural-looking and functional smile that will make you proud to show off.