At Joobbani Dental Designs, we’re dedicated to providing patients in Columbia, Maryland, with comprehensive restorative dentistry solutions, including dental bridges. This service is an essential aspect of our commitment to helping individuals achieve both functional and aesthetic oral health goals.
Diving Into the World of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a cornerstone of restorative dentistry, designed to fill the gaps left by one or more missing teeth. They consist of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth, known as pontics, can be made from a variety of materials including gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. The anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth and play a crucial role in securing the bridge.
Dental bridges not only restore the aesthetics of a smile but also have significant functional benefits. They help distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth and prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.
The Benefits Unveiled
- Restoration of smile: Fills gaps in your smile for an improved appearance.
- Improved chewing abilities: Replaces missing teeth to facilitate better chewing.
- Enhanced speech and pronunciation: Missing teeth can affect speech; bridges help correct this.
- Maintenance of face shape: Prevents facial sagging by supporting cheekbones and lips.
- Prevention of tooth misalignment: Stops remaining teeth from shifting into incorrect positions.
Your Dental Bridge Journey in Columbia
The process typically involves at least two visits to our practice. During the first visit, the abutment teeth are prepared by recontouring these teeth and taking impressions to create the bridge. A temporary bridge will be placed to protect your exposed teeth and gums while your bridge is being made. On the subsequent visit, this temporary bridge is removed, and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be checked and adjusted to achieve a proper fit. The success of any dental bridge depends significantly on its foundation – the health of surrounding teeth and gums.
Setting Your Expectations Right
Dental bridges are a durable solution that can last five to 15 years and even longer with good oral hygiene and regular checkups. Patients can expect a comfortable procedure with minimal discomfort post-treatment. It’s normal to feel some sensitivity around the treated area, but this usually subsides shortly after.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
What’s the difference between a traditional dental bridge and an implant-supported bridge?
A traditional dental bridge uses adjacent teeth as anchors while an implant-supported bridge uses dental implants for support. Our dentists might recommend one over the other based on your specific oral health condition.
How should I care for my dental bridge?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is key; brush twice daily, floss daily using tools designed for bridges, and see our dentists regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Is getting a dental bridge painful?
You may experience mild discomfort during preparation and fitting stages, but this procedure is largely pain-free thanks to modern anesthesia techniques.
In closing, at Joobbani Dental Designs in Columbia, MD, we believe in providing patient-centered care guided by expertise and compassion. If you’re considering dental bridges or have further questions about how they can benefit you specifically, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together with Drs. Babak Joobbani and Dr. Jennifer Joobbani, we look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more complete smile.