Do you have existing bridgework that is broken or worn? Are you missing teeth and trying to decide what treatment is right for you?
There are several types of dental bridges available for patients with missing teeth. Dr. Trinkner will evaluate your condition and help you select the best choice for your dental health and cosmetic goals.
Repair Damaged Teeth with Dental Bridges in Columbia, SC
Crowns and bridges are two common dental procedures. Missing or damaged teeth can cause both cosmetic and functional problems. It is important to have these problems addressed by a professional dentist who is accomplished in this type of dental work.
Dental crowns are used to replace the surface area of a tooth that is either damaged or unsightly. Sometimes a tooth that has a cavity or large filling will crack or break off. In other situations, a tooth may be discolored or visually distracting. Replacing the surface area with a crown is a fairly simple procedure.
It requires only two office visits. At the first visit, the damaged portion of the tooth is removed, x-rays are taken, and a temporary crown is attached. The permanent crown, made of porcelain or metal, will be fitted at the second visit. The permanent tooth will fit comfortably and will blend in with the surrounding teeth.
Dental bridges become necessary when teeth are missing. A bridge keeps the remaining teeth spaced and aligned properly. Teeth are made to match the surrounding natural teeth and placed on a metal bar. The healthy teeth on either side of the bridge will be crowned and then the bridge is attached.
The permanent teeth will be made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Your family dentist will determine which material will be best for your situation.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implants
If you have missing teeth, you may be wondering if dental implants or bridgework is the better treatment option. While dental implants offer the most tooth-like replacement regarding both function and health, they are not for everyone. Factors that would discount you as a candidate for implants are the bone condition, the location of missing teeth, and overall oral health.
One of the biggest considerations patients have when comparing dental implants to bridgework is cost. Dental implants are often more expensive upfront than dental bridges. However, they typically require less maintenance and can be less expensive in the long term. Dental implants also offer several key benefits for your long-term oral health:
- Reduced bone loss in the jaw
- Permanent, stable restoration
- No need to degrade existing teeth to secure a bridge
- Support regular chewing and speaking function
Dental Bridge Case
Tulay came to Columbia, SC dentist Dr. Trinkner with concerns about her smile. She had a dental bridge and crown on the top left that needed to be replaced and wanted to improve the color to her teeth. Due to the complexity of her bite, crowding, and spacing, Dr. Trinkner first utilized orthodontics for approximately 2 years. Next, Dr. Trinkner restored her teeth with porcelain veneers, porcelain bridge, and bleaching. She was extremely pleased with the final result.
Dental Bridges FAQ’s
How are dental bridges attached?
A dental bridge is a cosmetically indistinguishable false tooth that is secured to the structure of the mouth by two crowns bonded to the two teeth on either side of the crown itself.
Can dental bridges damage your teeth?
Like anything else, there is the potential for a tooth to become damaged due to changes in the mouth structure. That being said, because dental bridges are bonded to one or more additional teeth surrounding the false replacement tooth, ensuring that they’ve had plenty of time to securely bond to the adjoining teeth before resuming normal brushing and eating habits is essential.
What if I get a cavity under my bridge?
It is possible to get a cavity under your bridge. There are a few ways that this can be remedied, but the most common is removing the bridge, repairing the cavity, and then receiving a replacement bridge. It’s best to speak with your dentist concerning your options for any necessary repairs.
Call us at 803-400-8729 to schedule a consultation, or request a dental exam online. Dr. Trinkner is your missing teeth specialist in Richland County, SC, and beyond.