Dental Bridges
Dental Bridges - Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Bridges
Along with dental implants or partial dentures, dental bridges are another common way to replace missing teeth. Aside from the cosmetic issues that can arise from having gaps in your smile, missing teeth can also cause a host of other health problems. The other teeth in your mouth could shift, your bite may change and you have a greater chance of contracting painful TMJ. The replacement of these missing teeth is necessary in order to maintain the proper mouth functions.
Types of Bridges
A bridge, by definition, is a link or connection between two permanent structures. A dental bridge is very similar in that it attaches the restorative teeth (bridge) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This bridge acts as your new teeth, closing the gap and restoring your smile. Bridges are often constructed of gold or metal foundations with porcelain fused to the foundation. This ensures that the bridge will support the normal functions of the mouth.
There are different types of dental bridges – permanent and semi-permanent. Bridges are sometimes referred to as fixed partial dentures, because they are semi-permanent and are bonded to existing teeth or implants. There are three main types of bridges:
1) Traditional bridges involve creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with an artificial tooth, or pontic, in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
2) Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. They usually require connecting at least two teeth to provide enough support for the pontic.
3) Resin-Bonded Bridges (also called Maryland bridges) are made of porcelain teeth supported by a metal framework. Metal wings on each side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.
Procedure
The procedure begins with preparation of the natural teeth, or abutments. The dentist will shape the abutment teeth so that the ends of the bridge will fit comfortably on each one. The next step is to take an impression of the area. This impression will be sent to the lab where your new restoration will be made. While this new tooth is created, you will be provided with a temporary restoration. The temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily routine without worrying about a missing tooth.
During your second office visit, the dentist will proceed with the placement of your final restoration. This bridge will be fitted comfortably into the mouth. Every effort will be made to ensure that the new bridge is comfortable and feels exactly like your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the bridge into your mouth, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile.
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Dr. Gustav Kozina and the professional staff at Den-Care Smile Center are licensed providers of General Dentistry, Oral Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and Orthodontic treatment with braces and accepts most dental insurance plans including Medicaid, Public Aid and All Kids in Illinois.
Den-Care Smile Center treats patients from Northern Illinois including Lake County, Cook County, Dupage County and McHenry County as well as the communities of Antioch, Beach Park, Gages Lake, Grayslake, Great Lakes, Gurnee, Lake Barrington, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Lake Villa, Lake Zurich, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lindenhurst, Long Grove, McHenry, Mundelein, North Barrington, North Chicago, Round Lake, Round Lake Beach, Spring Grove, Vernon Hills, Volo, Wadsworth, Waukegan, Winthrop Harbor and Zion.