By Arthur Kezian
A dental bridge is implemented for spanning the gap between more than one missing tooth. It is also popularly known as a bridge or crown. It is one of the popular techniques used by dentists. As the first step, both sides of the teeth-gap are crowned by the Cosmetic Dentist. The replacement teeth will be then carefully suspended between these two crowned teeth. This technique allows the bridges to be supported with ease by the natural teeth of the patient. The individual can also choose the more expensive dental implant option for restoration of missing teeth. For those who cannot afford to get dental implants, dental bridges will do the job. Bridges are usually made up of materials such as porcelain, alloy and gold. However taking in to consideration the requirements of the individual and most patients, tooth coloured porcelain bridges are the most sought after and used bridges.
There are a range of benefits which the patient will be able to enjoy after bridging their missing teeth.
· The most important among them is the restoration of self confidence which will help the person smile with confidence and can eat food without worrying about missing teeth.· You can talk and chew comfortably.
· It prevents other teeth from drifting towards the space left by missing teeth.
· Usually missing teeth can cause change in the shape and structure of the face.
Bridges are designed to prevent facial collapse.
Studies show that when a person suffering from missing teeth leaves the gap unfilled through improper treatment, they are most likely to lose more teeth within the next four years. Dr. Kezian and staff recommend the missing teeth be filled as soon as possible to prevent these complications.
Proper oral care and hygiene are required for dental bridges to last longer.
· Going for your regular checkup to Dr. Kezian’s office in Los Angeles is preferred for maintaining proper oral care of bridges. However most people mistakenly think partial dentures are a removable bridge. Please take note that bridges are permanent and non-removable dental prosthetics. Partial dentures only replace a few teeth in a row. · Bridges are placed in such a position that a lot depends on the strength and stability of the surrounding teeth. Because of this, it is inevitable for the patient to maintain an excellent dental hygiene in order to keep these important foundational teeth healthy for a longer duration.
· It is imperative for the patient to maintain a healthier and balanced diet in order to keep the teeth healthy and strong.
There are three kinds of bridges: Traditional bridges, cantilever bridges and Maryland bonded bridges. The cantilever bridges are used when a person has an adjacent tooth on only one side of the missing teeth. Maryland bonded bridges are usually made up of plastic teeth and gums that are supported by a framework made up of metal. It uses metal wings which are bonded towards either side of the bridge towards the existing teeth. The dentist will deliver the bridge after taking impressions of the teeth. This is done in a dental lab. Till that time, a temporary bridge will be provided for the patient in order to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the permanent bridge is bring made. Once the patient receives the permanent bridge, the dentist will then place it temporarily on the missing teeth for a couple of weeks and evaluate it in order to check if it has a proper fit. The bridge will be then be permanently cemented in place of the missing teeth.
Dr. Arthur A. Kezian DDS 443 N. Larchmont Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 (323) 467-2777
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