Taking care of our dental health is crucial, but sometimes we may experience tooth loss. Fortunately, dentists in Lake Forest have mastered the art of replacing missing teeth, offering various solutions tailored to individual needs.

It's important to understand that replacing a missing tooth goes beyond aesthetics. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift, making it difficult to bite, chew, and speak. Additionally, the shifting of bones can even impact your overall facial structure.

Replacing missing or decayed teeth is essential for maintaining long-term oral health. Beyond the unsightly gap, it creates, a missing tooth can lead to other issues. It can cause the remaining teeth to shift, altering the alignment of your smile and potentially affecting your facial appearance.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are designed to replace missing teeth while stabilizing adjacent teeth. In Lake Forest, there are several types of bridges available. Typically, a bridge is composed of a fabricated tooth, called a pontic, which is held in place by one or more adjacent teeth. Unlike dental implants, a bridge does not directly anchor into the jaw but instead attaches to nearby teeth.

Traditional Bridge:

Among the various types of dental bridges available, the traditional bridge is the most frequently utilized option. It consists of a pontic tooth attached to two dental crowns that cover the neighboring teeth. To accommodate the crowns, the dentist will reshape the adjacent teeth and secure the crowns with a composite bonding resin.

Cantilever Bridge:

Similar to a traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge also features a pontic tooth. However, it is only attached to one neighboring tooth instead of two. This type of bridge is typically used for teeth located at the back of the mouth since it is secured on only one side.

Maryland Bridge:

Another type of bridge is the Maryland bridge, which does not require crowns to secure the pontic. Instead, metal or porcelain bands are used, attaching to nearby teeth with bonding resin. The advantage of this method is that it avoids the need to reshape adjacent teeth. However, Maryland bridges are generally weaker than traditional bridges and may not be suitable for replacing molars that endure significant chewing forces.

Procedure Overview:

Getting a dental bridge in Lake Forest involves more than a routine dental checkup. If you've had a dental crown in the past, the experience of getting a bridge will be somewhat similar. The process requires multiple appointments to prepare your teeth and place the bridge. If any treatment, such as fillings or root canals, is needed for the supporting teeth, it must be completed beforehand.

After completing any required treatments, the dentist will carefully remove some enamel from the supporting teeth to make room for the placement of the abutment crowns. A mold of the area will be made and sent to a lab, where a personalized bridge will be crafted. This typically takes a few weeks. Meanwhile, a temporary bridge will be provided.

During the final appointment, the permanent bridge will be placed, and any necessary adjustments will be made by the dentist.

The lifespan of your bridge depends on how well you maintain it. With proper care, a dental bridge can last well over 10 years. It's important to brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once a day, clean underneath the pontic, and regularly visit your dentist for cleanings and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your bridge.

Feel free to reach out to us at 949-787-1733 for any inquiries or to schedule your appointment!