Dental Bridges in North Olmsted, Ohio
When severe damage occurs or one or more teeth are lost, patients often experience pain, difficulty eating, and diminished confidence in their appearance. To restore the function and appearance of your teeth, Sikora Family Dentistry in North Olmsted, Ohio provides high-quality dental bridges. A dental bridge can restore your bite and your confidence, creating a stronger, healthier, more beautiful smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
When you lose a tooth to dental disease or injury, it leaves behind a gap. These openings are difficult to keep clean and often make it harder to bite and chew. Meanwhile, nearby teeth may move to fill the gap. The change in structure causes stress to your teeth and jaw, leading to progressive damage. These changes can also age your appearance as a shrinking jawbone gives less support to your lips and cheeks.
A dental bridge attaches to nearby teeth or dental implants, providing a natural-looking replacement for your missing teeth. The bridge is easy to clean and care for, just like natural teeth. It also discourages other teeth from filling the gap, preserving your mouth's function, bone structure, and appearance.
Types of Dental Bridges
Sikora Family Dentistry utilizes several types of dental bridges, each tailored to a patient's unique needs. Available dental bridge options include:
- Traditional: This type of bridge consists of one or more pontiffs, or false teeth, held in place by two dental crowns. The crowns are cemented to teeth on either side of the gap.
- Cantilever: If only one side of the gap has an adjacent tooth, a cantilever bridge is used. This bridge type is connected to, and supported by, a single dental crown.
- Resin-Bonded: A resin-bonded bridge is held in place by a metal or porcelain frame instead of a crown. This frame is bonded to the backs of adjacent healthy teeth.
- Implant-Supported: If more than one tooth is missing, we can support the bridge using a series of dental implants. The results feel very similar to natural teeth.
During your initial consultation, one of our dentists will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth. Based on this examination, they will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan and choose the best dental bridge for your needs.
Our Dental Bridge Procedure
Installing a dental bridge usually requires several appointments. This ensures that your teeth are ready to accept the bridge's structures and installation will be a success. We utilize the following process:
- The bridge's color is matched to your natural teeth.
- One of our dentists will prepare the teeth to support the bridge.
- An impression of your teeth will be taken.
- The impression is sent to a dental laboratory, where a bridge is crafted with a precise fit for your mouth.
- You'll be fitted with a temporary bridge.
- When your permanent bridge is ready, we'll schedule an appointment to make sure it fits.
- Adjustments are made to ensure stability and comfort.
- The dental bridge is cemented in place.
Your bridge should offer long-lasting performance, but good oral hygiene is essential. If disease or decay weakens the adjacent teeth, the bridge will no longer receive adequate support. Your dentist can provide more information on preventative care, including at-home practices and regular cleanings.
Restore Your Smile with a Dental Bridge
If you're missing a tooth, a dental bridge can bring back a radiant smile and a healthier mouth. To learn more about dental bridges for patients in North Olmsted, OH, and the surrounding areas, contact Sikora Family Dentistry. To get started right away, call our office at 440-779-8730 or schedule an appointment online.