Dentist in Burr Ridge, IL explains the purpose of dental bridges for smile restoration

At the practice of Dr. Janet Stopka, patients in the community of Burr Ridge, IL can ask a professional about the types of solutions available for enhancing their smile and restoring function after the loss of natural adult teeth. In many situations, a dentist may recommend a dental bridge. Our dentist explains the purpose of dental bridges and helps patients in the community to decide if one is right for their smile.

Understanding dental bridges

There are several options available for patients who are interested in replacing missing teeth, including dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants. A popular option is a dental bridge. This type of restoration includes false teeth called pontics that are used to replace the missing teeth, which are fused to dental crowns on each side. The crowns are used over the adjacent teeth, which provide the anchor to support the bridge in the mouth.

Dental bridges are commonly made with materials that mimic the appearance of natural teeth, such as ceramic, to ensure they look seamless in the smile. The many benefits of dental bridges include:

• Natural-looking
• Great for replacing one or more teeth in a row
• Non-removable
• Easy to fabricate to look like existing teeth
• Permanently placed
• Sometimes covered by dental insurance in part or in whole
• Created in a laboratory to match your smile
• Often an affordable solution for patients seeking long-term options

What is the purpose of a dental bridge?

The primary purpose of the dental bridge is to replace missing teeth that may be impacting the appearance and/or functionality of your smile. Dental bridges allow you to eat and speak properly and can improve your self-confidence. Patients who have dental restorations made and placed with Dr. Janet Stopka are pleased to share their smile with others again and have the confidence they need to socialize with friends, family, and coworkers. A dental bridge is a wonderful option for patients who have careers in which they work with others on a daily basis and need to look and feel their best every day!

How is a dental bridge made?

The process of getting a dental bridge placed in your mouth is rather straightforward. It starts with scheduling an appointment with Dr. Janet Stopka and the team of professionals in her practice to undergo an initial evaluation. This evaluation will determine if you are well-suited for a dental bridge. It may be a time during which the dentist also makes recommendations for other choices so that you can make a knowledgeable decision.

Once you have chosen to have a dental bridge made, your teeth will need to undergo preparations and the bridge will need to be created. To prepare the tooth, the dentist removes a portion of the natural tooth enamel on the surrounding teeth. Then, impressions are taken of your mouth and these molds are sent to a dental laboratory with specific instructions regarding the final results of the dental bridge, including the color, size, and shape of the existing teeth.

You may have a temporary bridge put in place while you wait for the permanent bridge to be fabricated. Once the restoration is completed, it is mailed to the dental office and you will return to see Dr. Janet Stopka to have the dental bridge bonded in place with a strong adhesive.

How long do dental bridges last?

Dental bridges often last many years as long as patients take great care of them. It is important to floss underneath the false tooth or teeth to keep food particles from getting stuck and contributing to conditions such as periodontal disease. The teeth underneath the dental crowns may also still be at risk for decay and disease, so routine x-rays during routine hygiene visits are often done to monitor their health.

Dr. Janet Stopka will educate you on how to care for your dental bridge to increase its longevity so you can enjoy your restoration for a long time. This includes daily care and an emphasis on regular visits to the dentist.

Are you interested in dental bridges for replacing missing teeth?

Contact Dr. Janet Stopka today to find out how your smile can be enhanced with restorations such as dental bridges. We welcome you to book an appointment by calling (630) 756-5844 and visiting the office at 16W289 83rd Street, Suite D in Burr Ridge, IL.