Dental Bridges

Losing a tooth or multiple teeth can significantly impact your ability to speak, chew, and maintain the alignment of your remaining teeth. Fortunately, dental bridges offered by our dentist in Metairie, LA are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and appearance. At Simone Dental, our experienced team is here to help you understand and choose the best option for your dental needs.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge, also known as a fixed partial denture, is a device designed to fill the gap left by missing teeth. It attaches artificial teeth, called pontics, to adjacent natural teeth, known as abutment teeth. These bridges can be either fixed (permanently attached) or removable. Fixed bridges are bonded in place and can only be removed by a professional, while removable bridges can be taken out for cleaning.

Types of Dental Bridges

  1. Fixed Bridges: These are either placed by crowning the abutment teeth or bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. Fixed bridges offer greater stability and are preferred for their durability and functionality.
  2. Removable Bridges: These bridges attach to the abutment teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments, allowing for easy removal and cleaning.

Why Do I Need a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is essential for maintaining oral functionality and aesthetics. When teeth are missing, it can affect your ability to eat and speak properly. Additionally, missing teeth can alter your facial appearance, causing your mouth to sink and making you look older. Replacing missing teeth with a bridge helps support your lips and cheeks, preserving your youthful appearance.

Dental bridges also play a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Missing teeth create unusual stresses on your gums and other oral tissues, which can lead to various disorders. Moreover, the risk of gum disease increases with missing teeth, a concern that can be mitigated with a dental bridge.

How is a Dental Bridge Attached?

The process of attaching a dental bridge typically involves two or three appointments with our dentist in Metairie, LA. During the initial visit, Dr. Simone will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin. Impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a lab where the bridge is meticulously crafted to ensure a perfect fit.

At the subsequent appointments, the bridge is cemented onto the abutment teeth. The pontic replaces the missing tooth, and dental crowns on the abutment teeth provide the necessary support for the bridge.

Materials Used for Dental Bridges

Dental bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination thereof. Porcelain is commonly used due to its aesthetic qualities, as it can be bonded to either precious or non-precious metals to match the color of natural teeth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper maintenance of your dental bridge is crucial for its longevity. A strict regimen of brushing and flossing is essential to keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. Since the bridge relies on neighboring teeth for support, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital.

For more information on dental bridges or to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Metairie LA, please contact Simone Dental at 504-456-0964. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with the right dental solutions.