Dental Bridge
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
 When considering restoration options, dental bridges are a great way to replace missing teeth. At Palani Center for Dental Implants, we seek to promote oral health in our patients, and missing teeth can lead to severe problems in your bite and function. Giri Palani, DDS, FICOI can help you restore your oral health and protect your bite with the creation of a dental bridge. Following a thorough dental evaluation, we will review your options with you and make recommendations which may include a dental bridge.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental prosthetic; this device uses your existing teeth to create a bridge that crosses the area where your tooth is missing. In general, bridges are designed to replace one or two missing teeth, though we can be more specific in this information based on each and their situation. Bridges are available in some materials, including gold, metal, alloys, or porcelain. Giri Palani, DDS, FICOI will review your options with you and make recommendations based on where the bridge is being placed in your mouth. Overall, the device is strong and durable, lasting most patients several years.
We customize your dental bridge to fit you, including your bite and placement. The first step to creating your bridge begins with creating abutments for existing teeth. Two existing teeth, or dental implants, will need to serve as anchors for the bridge. The abutments are placed on the anchor teeth. Before placement, the existing teeth are re-contoured and reduced in size to fit the bridge. Following the abutments being created, a mold is then taken of the area. This mold is sent to a dental lab where your bridge will be created. The bridge is made up of two crowns for the anchor teeth, and the replacement tooth, or teeth, between. A temporary bridge will be worn while we wait for the permanent bridge is being made. Temporary bridges are important to protect the abutments while waiting for the permanent bridge.
We will contact you when your permanent bridge is ready for placement. The new bridge will be placed on the abutments. Giri Palani, DDS, FICOI will check the bridge for fit and can make any necessary adjustments at this time. Once the fit and feel are perfected, the bridge is then set in place with cement. The bridge will remain permanently in place. Giri Palani, DDS, FICOI will continue to check on your bridge during your regular dental examinations. If it requires new cement or repair, that can be done at that time.
A dental bridge may take some time to get used to, but most patients find that within days they feel like they have their teeth back. Within days, you will be able to resume eating your regular diet. Dental bridges to require daily care, they need to be brushed and flossed as your regular teeth do. Though crowns will not decay, gum disease can still occur and would be damaging for your teeth and gums.
If you are missing a tooth, we are happy to review your options with you. Our front office staff at Palani Center for Dental Implants is here to assist you in setting up an appointment and to answer your questions. Contact us today for more information! (310) 894-8337
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