Expert Tooth Replacement With Dental Bridges
If you’re missing one or more teeth and want a stable, natural-looking solution, dental bridges are a reliable option. Dr. Aura Marcela Torres works with leading dental bridge specialists around Santa Cruz, CA to ensure your smile is restored to a healthy and great looking state.
Dental bridges not only fill gaps in your smile but also help maintain proper alignment of your remaining teeth, restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably, and prevent further oral health issues caused by tooth loss. Each bridge is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless, durable, and long-lasting restoration that enhances both function and aesthetics.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge consists of one or more synthetic teeth used to fill a gap in your smile. Different types of materials may be used to create a dental bridge, including metal alloys and ceramics.
After an impression is taken of your mouth, a lab makes your dental bridge to match your surrounding teeth. The dental bridge consists of synthetic teeth called pontics and usually has dental crowns on each end. The dental crowns are placed over your existing teeth to hold the dental bridge in place.
When extra support is needed because your existing teeth are not able to hold the dental bridge alone or there are several missing teeth, implants may be used with or without placing dental crowns on surrounding teeth.
Why Do I Need a Dental Bridge?
If you have one or more missing teeth, your mouth might not be functioning properly, and your bite may be affected.
Missing teeth can allow other teeth to move into the vacant space. This may cause pain by placing more stress on your jaw joints and teeth. These teeth that have moved are now more susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay since it is more difficult to properly clean them.
Bone shrinkage may occur where there once was a tooth and now it is gone. The way the cheeks and lips are supported by the jawbone may change as the bone shrinks. Your face may look different over time as a result.
How Do I Know if I Should Get a Dental Bridge?
Consulting a dentist is the best way to determine if a dental bridge is right for you. During your exam, the dentist will review your specific situation and explain your options.
At Dr. Aura Marcela Torres, we take the time to go over all your possible options and answer any questions you have. After years of fitting patients in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Scotts Valley, Soquel, and surrounding areas with dental bridges, you can be confident that we will work hard to deliver you the best solution possible.
How Do I Take Care of a Dental Bridge?
Though your dental bridge should be treated with a bit more care than your natural teeth to reduce discoloration and detachment, you must take good care of your natural teeth as well, especially if they are holding the dental bridge in place. If those teeth become compromised, the stability of the dental bridge and how well your mouth looks and functions may be threatened.
Regular Checkups
Regular checkups and cleanings are crucial to ensure that your dental bridge is functioning properly. Even if the dental bridge is not supported by your natural teeth, neglecting care can lead to oral health issues such as gum disease and bone loss, which may compromise the appearance and functionality of your dental bridge.
Oral Hygiene
Proper personal oral hygiene is essential to remove plaque and bacteria, keeping your dental bridge healthy and looking its best. Using products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance is recommended, as they meet the American Dental Association’s standards for both effectiveness and safety.
Diet
It is important to maintain a healthy diet to ensure your oral health does not suffer. You should also avoid foods that may stain your teeth or dental bridge and cause irregular discoloration or distortion.
Let’s Plan the Next Step in Your Smile Care
When you are ready for a consultation to go over your options, give us a call at (831) 423-3002. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Dr. Aura Marcela Torres is ready to help with any questions or appointment requests you may have. We are conveniently located in Santa Cruz, CA and is easily accessible from Capitola, Scotts Valley, Soquel, and surrounding areas.