Dental Bridges in San Diego, CA

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that replace one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap between the adjacent teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns placed on adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.

Dental bridges are essential for restoring aesthetics, functionality, and oral health. They help maintain facial shape, restore the ability to chew and speak correctly, distribute biting forces, and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting out of place. Bridges in San Diego, CA, also contribute to supporting overall dental health by reducing the risk of gum disease and improving the smile's appearance. Proper care and regular dental check-ups are crucial for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of dental bridges.

Types of Dental Bridges 

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional dental bridges are the most commonly used type and consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns. These crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth or implants adjacent to the gap. The pontic(s) effectively "bridge" the space left by missing teeth, restoring chewing ability and preventing neighboring teeth from shifting out of position.

The benefits of traditional bridges include:  

• Bridges are crafted to match your natural teeth in terms of color and shape, enhancing your smile's appearance.  

• Bridges restore proper chewing function and speech clarity by filling the gap left by missing teeth. 

• Missing teeth can cause facial muscles to sag over time. Bridges help maintain the natural shape and contour of your face. 

• Bridges reduce strain on remaining natural teeth by evenly distributing the forces of biting and chewing. 

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are used when supporting teeth are only available on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on support from both sides of the gap, cantilever bridges are anchored on one side only. While less common than traditional bridges, they can be viable depending on your dental situation.

The benefits of cantilever bridges include:  

• They require minimal preparation of adjacent teeth compared to traditional bridges, which can be advantageous if neighboring teeth are healthy.  

• These bridges provide a stable solution for replacing missing teeth in areas where supporting teeth are only available on one side. Contact us today to learn more! 

Maryland Bonded Bridges

Maryland bonded bridges are a conservative alternative to traditional bridges, especially for replacing front teeth. They consist of a pontic held in place by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the backs of adjacent natural teeth. This type of bridge is less invasive because it requires minimal alteration of adjacent teeth.

The benefits of Maryland bonded bridges include:  

• They require minimal preparation of adjacent teeth, preserving their natural structure.  

• The bonding procedure is relatively simple and requires less time than other types of bridges. 

• The porcelain or ceramic pontics and framework blend in seamlessly with natural teeth, providing a natural-looking smile.  

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are anchored in place by dental implants rather than crowns placed on natural teeth. This type of bridge is recommended when multiple adjacent teeth are missing or the adjacent natural teeth are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge.

The benefits of implant-supported bridges include:  

• Implants provide a stable foundation for the bridge, offering long-lasting durability and functionality. 

• Unlike traditional bridges, adjacent natural teeth need not be prepared or altered to support the bridge. 

• Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain bone density and prevent bone loss. 

The Procedure for Getting a Dental Bridge 

Initial Examination and Preparation

During your first visit, our dentist in San Diego, CA, will examine where the bridge will be placed. This may involve taking X-rays and impressions of your teeth and gums to create a model for crafting the bridge. If there are any decayed or damaged teeth adjacent to the gap, they will be treated and prepared to support the bridge.  

Tooth Preparation

The adjacent teeth (abutment teeth) on either side of the gap will be reshaped for traditional bridges to accommodate dental crowns. This process involves removing a small portion of enamel to ensure a proper fit for the crowns holding the bridge in place. If you're getting an implant-supported bridge, the implants will be surgically placed in the jawbone during a separate procedure, and time will be given to integrate with the bone before the bridge is attached.  

Impression Taking

Once the teeth are prepared, another impression of your teeth will be taken. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians will create a custom bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. Temporary crowns or bridges may be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.  

Fitting and Adjustment

On your next visit, our dentist will check the fit and appearance of the permanent bridge. Adjustments may be made as necessary to ensure a comfortable fit and proper bite alignment. The bridge will be temporarily cemented to allow you and our dentist to assess its fit and appearance over a few days. 

Final Placement

Once you and our dentist are satisfied with the fit and appearance of the bridge, it will be permanently cemented into place. The crowns on the adjacent teeth or the implants will secure the bridge firmly in position. Our dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your new bridge, including proper oral hygiene techniques and regular dental check-ups to maintain its longevity. 

Dental bridges offer a reliable and effective solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics to your smile. Visit Mira Mesa Dental Care at 6755 Mira Mesa Blvd, Ste 142, San Diego, CA 92121, or call (858) 457-7747 to schedule your consultation and discover how dental bridges can transform your smile and enhance your quality of life.