Dental Bridges

If you have gaps in your smile from tooth loss, our Beverly Hills dentist has several solutions that will restore your smile and keep your teeth healthy. One solution is an appliance placed between the teeth, known as a “bridge.”

Dental bridges are made of porcelain and literally “bridge” the gap between existing teeth. Bridges can be made to span a distance of two, three, or four missing teeth; some bridges can even span larger gaps.

Porcelain bridges consist of two parts. The teeth at each end of the bride, called “abutment teeth,” are attached to your existing teeth to support the bridge. The abutment teeth can be attached with small metal hooks or can be held in place as implants. The bridging teeth, known as “pontics,” simply attach to the abutment teeth. They can be held by implants, as well.

Most bridge teeth are made of a metal alloy covered with porcelain. Porcelain bridges not only mimic the color of existing teeth, making the bridge less noticeable, but the material is hard-wearing and long-lasting, providing years of service.

Dental bridges serve several important health functions. They cover the gums between existing teeth, preventing buildups of harmful plaque and bacteria. They protect the existing teeth, giving them support and strength. They also help maintain the shape of the jaw and facial bones, which can eventually change due to lost teeth.

Porcelain Bridges

Of course, the cosmetic function of dental bridges cannot be minimized. Many people find an entirely new sense of self-esteem by dealing with gaps in their toothline; they are able to face the world with a smile, confident of their own attractive appearance.

In order to be fitted for porcelain bridges, our dentist will take photographs of your mouth, measure carefully, and make notes of the condition, color, and position of existing teeth. The dentist may also make a mold of your mouth. Some other dental work may be needed prior to placing bridges, such as cleanings, fillings, or root canals.

Dental bridges are usually made by a cosmetic appliance specialist. Once measurements are taken and the appliance ordered, the dentist may use the waiting time to work on other oral health issues and allow your mouth to heal, or may apply some type of temporary fitting for your mouth.

When the porcelain bridges arrive, the dentist will attach them. Depending on the type of fitting used, this may involve implant preparation or simply attaching the bridge to your existing teeth. You can start enjoying your new bridges immediately.

Our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist will work with you to find the right solution to your oral health issues.