Dental Bridges in Hinsdale
If you are missing teeth, our dentist can fill the gaps in your smile with dental bridges. A dental bridge is a false tooth that fills the gap where the missing tooth was. A dental bridge is usually held in place by the natural teeth on each side of the gap. The false tooth is often made from porcelain to blend in with your real teeth.
A dental bridge can restore your smile, ability to chew food, speaking skills, and the functions of your teeth. A dental bridge can also re-adjust your bite and help prevent your teeth from moving out of their correct position.
The most common causes of missing teeth are tooth decay, gum disease, injury, and genetics. If you have a tooth missing, then your nearby teeth may try to crowd into the empty space. The teeth on the opposite side (upper/lower) can also move toward the empty space. That may sound strange, but those teeth are looking for their matches when you bite down.
These teeth movements can cause biting problems, chewing difficulties, pain in your teeth and jaw, and make you feel self-conscious.
There are different types of bridges that can help you replace that missing tooth, or teeth.
Types of Bridges
There are several different kinds of bridges, including:
A Fixed Bridge is the most popular type of bridge and consists of a filler tooth that’s attached to two crowns. The crowns fit over the teeth on either side of the gap and hold the bridge in place. A fixed bridge is usually the most aesthetically appealing and comfortable choice.
The Maryland Bridge is commonly used to replace missing front teeth and consists of a filler tooth that’s attached to metal bands that are bonded to the back of the neighboring teeth. The metal bands consist of a white-colored composite resin that matches the color of your existing teeth
The Cantilever Bridge is often used when there are only teeth on one side of the gap. A typical three-unit cantilever bridge consists of two crowned teeth positioned next to each other on the same side of the missing tooth space. The filler tooth is then connected to the two crowned teeth, which extend into the missing tooth space or end.
Treatment Conditions for Bridges
The procedure specifics will depend on the type of bridge you choose. We’ll take digital impressions using the iTero® scanner to create a customized bridge that looks and feels natural. For a fixed bridge or cantilever bridge, we’ll recontour the teeth that require crowns and create a temporary restoration while your permanent bridge is being made. When your permanent bridge is ready, we’ll check that it fits and that your bite is correct before cementing it into place.
You’ll need to practice good oral hygiene, including flossing once daily and brushing twice a day, as well as keeping up with your regular professional cleanings to maintain healthy, bacteria-free teeth and gums. With proper care, your dental bridge can last for over a decade.
If you’re in Hinsdale or surrounding areas, please call our office at 630-325-2525 to get more information about Dental Bridges in Hinsdale.
