If you are missing teeth, it can affect your smile even if you keep your lips closed. Over time, your jawbone will begin to shrink and shorten your face. A porcelain bridge will fill out the gaps in your smile and allow you to chew your food with ease and speak clearly. It will also prevent your remaining teeth from shifting around in your mouth, and properly distribute the bite force in your mouth to reduce stress on your natural teeth. If you need porcelain bridges, contact Smile In Style, Diem Do DDS.
Replacing teeth with a bridge
Traditionally, a porcelain bridge consists of two crowns on each end that act as anchors to one or more artificial teeth. If you only have one tooth next to your missing tooth or teeth, you may require a cantilever style bridge with one anchor point. Some patients may opt for a Maryland style bridge, which uses a framework to secure your artificial tooth, and leaves the neighboring teeth mostly intact.
Before you get your bridge, Dr. Do will have to examine your teeth. If you have tooth decay or gum disease, he will have to treat that first. He will then give you a local anesthetic and prepare your anchor teeth for crowns by removing the exterior. Next, he will create impressions of your teeth for the dental lab to use as a blueprint. Dr. Do will give you a temporary bridge until your permanent crown is complete.
On the next visit, Dr. Do will remove your temporary bridge and check the fit of the new one. After making any necessary adjustments, he will bond the bridge to your teeth.
BEFORE AND AFTER RESULTS
Taking care of your dental restoration
Initially, you may need a few follow up appointments to adjust your bridge for a more comfortable fit. Dental bridges are durable, and if properly cared for, they will last for many years. However, if you are not vigilant at brushing and flossing daily, your anchor teeth can get cavities. As your teeth wear down, it can loosen the bridge, and it may fall out. In some cases, Dr. Do can reattach the bridge after treating tooth decay, but in others, you may need a replacement bridge.Contact us today for a consultation to learn more about porcelain dental bridges and discover all your options for dental restoration. We serve the communities of Marrero, Harvey, Gretna, Westwego, New Orleans, Avondale, Metairie, Kenner, and Lafitte.
