Complete Your “Gappy” Smile with Natural-looking Dental Bridges
You have 32 teeth, so it’s fair to assume losing one tooth won’t be that bad. The reality is that losing one or more teeth can have a tremendous impact on your oral health. Whether you have lost your teeth to injury or disease, you will notice the impact on your speech or when eating. Besides, tooth loss gives birth to an empty space where neighboring teeth can slide into. This dental drift leads to misalignment that causes jaw pain, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms.
Thankfully, you don’t have to live with a toothless smile. Dental bridges from Neal Edwards DDS in Riverside, California, can replace your missing smile to restore your smile and oral function.
Bridge That Gap!
Find out whether a dental bridge is right for you in Riverside, California. Contact Dr. Neal Edwards and his caring team to discuss your needs, ask questions, and explore your options. They will walk you through every stage so you feel informed and comfortable with your choice.
Take the first step toward a complete, confident smile with a dentist near you.
What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges fill in the gap left by the missing teeth. There are different types of bridges, but all consist of pontics (artificial teeth) that bridge the edentulous gap. Traditional bridges are held in place by healthy teeth on the sides of the gap. These neighboring teeth, also called abutments, are secured by dental crowns to hold your bridges firmly.
Cantilever bridges are held in place by one abutment tooth, while implant bridges don’t need the support of other teeth. Implant bridges are secured by the jawbone, leaving the adjacent teeth intact.
Dental Bridges
The dental implant procedure
Every dental procedure at Neal Edwards DDS starts with a consultation. Here, we examine your current dental health and establish your candidacy for dental bridges. We take a detailed picture of your mouth, gums and teeth to determine the type of bridge suitable for your smile.
We will start the tooth preparation process if you are a suitable candidate for a dental bridge. This procedure is done after administering local anesthesia in the treatment area. Next, we start filing down the surviving teeth to create space for dental crowns. Then, we take your bite impressions to custom-make your pontic and dental crowns. Until your dental bridge is ready, we will place a temporary one to protect your smile.
Once your bridge is ready, you will book another appointment with Dr. Neal Edwards for installation. We make a few tweaks to your dental bridge before bonding it to your teeth using dental cement. You must make follow-up visits to ensure your bridge feels and fits just right.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How many teeth can a dental bridge replace?
A traditional dental bridge can replace 1-3 missing teeth, depending on the health of the surrounding teeth. It can fill larger spaces, but the longer the bridge, the less stable it becomes. If you want to replace more than three teeth, your dentist will recommend stabilizing your restoration with dental implants. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health to determine the best type of bridge for your needs.
Can I remove my dental bridge?
No. Traditional dental bridges are fixed restorations. They cannot be removed even when cleaning or sleeping. Their fixed design provides stable function and comfort, just like natural teeth. Only your dentist can remove a fixed bridge if necessary.
Is getting a dental bridge a painful procedure?
No! Your dentist numbs your mouth with effective local anesthetics to ensure a comfortable procedure. Patients report the sensation as pressure rather than pain. We understand some patients may need a little help to ensure maximum comfort. We offer sedation dentistry to take the edge off your treatment and make your experience stress-free.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Eating may feel a bit weird for a few days as you adjust to your dental bridge. However, after the transition period, you can eat your favorite foods without holding back. Chewing becomes more comfortable and enjoyable. However, it’s important to avoid very hard items, such as ice and hard candies, to preserve the structural integrity of your bridge.
Will my dental bridge look natural?
Absolutely. We customize your dental bridge to match the shape, color, and size of your teeth. Once placed, your dental bridge blends seamlessly with your smile, giving you a beautifully refreshed smile.
How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges are created from durable materials that can last up to 10 years with good maintenance. To maximize the longevity of your dental bridge, observe good oral hygiene and maintain routine dental visits.
How do I clean a dental bridge?
Taking care of your bridgework is essential to keep it healthy and strong. Brush and floss your teeth diligently to prevent plaque buildup. During cleaning, pay attention to the area under the bridge as it’s susceptible to gunk buildup. You may need an interdental brush or water flosser to clean the area around the bridge. A medicated mouthwash can also help.
How much are dental bridges in Riverside, CA?
There is no one-size-fits-all price for dental bridges. At our office, your dental bridge is customized to your unique needs and preferences. As such, we’ll share a clear cost breakdown tailored to your unique case.
We understand dental bridges can be a significant financial commitment. We’ll discuss how to make your treatment affordable with insurance and financing.
Where can I get dental bridges in Riverside, CA?
Tooth loss doesn’t have to affect how you eat, smile, and speak. Regain a fully functional smile with high-quality dental bridges at Neal Edwards DDS. Our dentists combine premium materials with precision to create functional, durable, and beautiful-looking bridges. Call (951) 614-0033 and schedule an appointment today.
