Dr. Dennis Garpetti and Dr. Brock Hyder are expert dentists that help patients replace missing teeth. They offer a full range of restorative dentistry treatment options to restore a smile with several gaps in it including dental bridges in Boise, ID. A dental bridge as an effective solution that dentists have used for many decades to address tooth loss. Our offices uses state of art materials and advanced technology to craft restorations that fit your oral health and cosmetic needs.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth is instrumental in regaining control of your bite and preventing further dental problems. When missing teeth are left unaddressed, patients are at a higher risk of many problems. Healthy, remaining can often shift towards the empty space. Teeth shifting creates many issues including misalignment, TMJ disorders, difficulty keeping teeth clean, gum recession, further tooth loss, and gum disease. Teeth help support the structure of the face. Once a tooth does missing, the underlying bone will slowly begin to deteriorate. Once bone loss occurs in the jaw, this creates a sunken or collapsed appearance in the face.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental device that dentists use to replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. It is made up dental crowns (located on each end) and pontics (the false teeth that are in the middle of the crowns. The crowns and pontics are fused together to create a single prosthetic device. A dental bridge is typically crafted from dental porcelain to help patients achieve a natural looking smile. Traditionally, a dental bridge is anchored into place by adjacent teeth. However, for a more secure solution, dental bridges can be supported using dental implants.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of bridges to choose from depending on your needs and aesthetic desires. Dr. Garpetti or Dr. Hyder will examine your teeth and analyze your smile then recommend the best treatment for you. They will choose from one of the following types of dental bridges that will best suite your unique needs.
Traditional Dental Bridge
A traditional dental bridge is the most common type of dental bridge. It can be used to replace one or more teeth. It involves placing a false tooth (pontic) between two crowns that are placed on the adjacent teeth. The crowns are used to support the pontic and hold it in place. Your dentist will need to remove a substantial amount of tooth structure from the adjacent teeth for this type of bridge. Then the crown portion of the bridge will be cemented to the prepared teeth to secure the bridge in place.
Cantilever Dental Bridge
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge except it will only be secured to one adjacent tooth. Your dentist will use this type of bridge when there is only one adjacent tooth available to support the bridge. However, a cantilever bridge should be secured to a sturdy tooth, such as a tooth found in the back of the mouth. This is because they have a higher chance of cracking or de-bonding since it is only secured to one tooth.
Maryland Dental Bridge
A Maryland dental bridge is very different. It involves using a metal or porcelain framework to support the pontic. The “wings” of the framework are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth using resin or cement. These are more common to replace a single tooth in the front of the mouth. However, the patient must have excellent oral hygiene and very healthy adjacent teeth.
Implant Supported Dental Bridge
When applicable, Dr. Garpetti and Dr. Hyder will suggest securing a dental bridge with dental implants. Instead of relying on neighboring teeth, the dental bridge is supported by dental implants which are small, screw like metal posts. The metal posts are surgically implanted into the jaw where they will fuse to the bone. Then the dental bridge is secured to them.
Since the implants fuse to the bone, they create a very sturdy base to secure the bridge. This makes it more stable than a traditional dental bridge. It also allows the patient to enjoy a better functioning bite. Patients can enjoy speaking, eating, and chewing without worry of slippage or putting stress on the abutment teeth. Also, the implants help replace the missing teeth roots. This help promote bone regeneration. Preventing bone loss will also help prevent facial sagging and the formation of deep wrinkles. Implant secured dental bridges last longer than traditional dental bridges and will prevent additional tooth loss.
About the Implant Supported Bridge Process
Drs. Garpetti and Hyder work will explain all aspects of your personalized treatment plan prior to your appointment. They perform all aspects of dental implant services in their Boise dental office. If dental implants are used to secure a dental bridge, your dentist will surgically place the dental implants into the jaw bone. Once the implants are placed, it takes anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the implants to fully fuse into the jaw bone. During the healing process, we will give you a temporary restoration so you will not have to go without teeth. The nest step is to secure an abutment to each implant. This requires and additional few weeks of healing time. During this time, your permanent dental restoration will be fabricated in a dental lab. When it is ready, your dentist will secure it to the dental implants.
How to Care for your dental Bridge
Taking care of your dental bridge will ensure that is lasts for many years. It will also make sure you maintain good oral health. We recommend the following tips to properly care for your bridge:
- Brush and Floss Daily: You will need to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day to remove plaque, food, and other debris from around the bridge. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean the teeth and gums.
- Use Interdental Brushes: These are special tools that will help you clean in between the teeth and under the bridge. Regular brushing and flossing cannot reach these places.
- Invest in a Water Flosser: This tool essentially shoots a strong stream of water under the bridge to remove any food and debris that is stuck there. Many dentists recommend it to help patients easily clean under their new bridge and between the teeth.
- Avoid Sticky and Hard Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky foods, such as hard candy, ice, or gum, can damage the bridge or dislodge it and should be avoided.
- Never Skip Your Dentist Appointments: Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure the bridge is functioning properly. They also make sure are free of any dental problems such as gum disease and tooth which can affect your bridge.
If you are interested in replacing your teeth with a dental bridge in Boise, ID, book a consultation with Dr. Garpetti or Dr. Hyder. Call today at (208) 254-6365 to schedule an appointment. You can also request an appointment online by filling our convenient online form.