Regain Natural Functionality with Dental Bridges in Joondalup

A dental bridge is a non-removable prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, that fill the gap left by the lost teeth. These pontics are supported by dental crowns, which are anchored on the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants called abutments. The dental bridges can be made from porcelain, metal, gold, zirconia or a combination of these materials. The choice depends on the location of the teeth to be replaced, the patient’s bite, preference and budget.

A dental bridge can be an alternative tooth restoration to partial dentures. There are different kinds of bridges, including traditional bridges, Maryland dental bridges, implant-supported bridges, and cantilever bridges. Having a consultation with a licenced dentist can help you better understand what a dental bridge is. They can also help you choose which type is indicated for your case.

Certain signs may suggest the need for a dental bridge restoration, and it is important to be aware of them for timely intervention. These include the following:

• Missing one or more teeth:
  The most obvious sign is having one or more missing teeth. A bridge can help restore your smile and teeth’s functionality.
• Bite Problems:
  Missing teeth can lead to changes in your bite, causing discomfort or difficulty chewing. A bridge helps distribute the forces in your bite more evenly by replacing the missing teeth.
• Tooth shifting:
  If you have gaps, your teeth might shift into empty spaces over time. This can lead to misaligned teeth, a crooked smile and an improper bite, which a bridge can help prevent.
• Speech Issues:
  Missing teeth can affect your ability to pronounce certain words. Replacing these teeth can help improve speech.
• Aesthetic Concerns:
  If you’re self-conscious about the appearance of missing teeth, a bridge can restore a natural-looking smile.

If you notice any of these signs, consult with your dentist. They can assess your condition and determine if a dental bridge is an appropriate treatment of choice for restoring your confident smile.

Dental bridges can look natural as they can be made from porcelain or zirconia, materials that closely resemble real teeth. Your dentist will take the shade of the remaining teeth and help you choose a colour that matches it. This careful selection process is essential to making the dental bridge blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. The craftsmanship involved also mimics the shape and texture of real teeth. With these considerations, dental bridges provide a natural-looking appearance, restoring your smile.

For more information, you can consult your dentist at Joondalup City Dental. Our team will explain the details of a dental bridge, including how we can make it as natural as possible.

A dental bridge is a common dental restoration used to replace missing teeth. Here are some of the main benefits of getting a dental bridge:

• Restored Functionality:
  Bridges help restore the ability to properly chew and speak by replacing missing teeth.
• Improved Appearance:
  They can improve the aesthetics of your smile by filling the gaps left by missing teeth.
• Maintain Facial Shape:
  Missing teeth can lead to facial sagging. Bridges support the facial structure and help maintain facial shape.
• Prevent Teeth Misalignment:
  When a tooth is missing, the neighbouring teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment. A bridge fills the gap, keeping the surrounding teeth properly aligned as it prevents tooth movement.
• Evenly Distributed Bite:
  By replacing missing teeth, bridges help distribute the forces in your bite more evenly, which can prevent issues in the jaw and other teeth.
• Longevity and Durability:
  Dental bridges are durable and can last many years with proper care, offering a long-lasting restoration that is less invasive than implants.
• Quick Procedure:
  Unlike implants, which require several months to complete, bridges can be installed in a few weeks, making them a faster treatment for missing teeth.

Getting a dental bridge is an important decision that should involve a consultation with your dentist to determine if it’s the right choice for your specific dental needs.

Caring for your dental bridge is essential to maintaining its longevity and functionality. Here are some key tips to help you take proper care of your dental bridge:

• Practice regular brushing:
  Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This helps reduce plaque and prevent decay around the bridge.
• Floss daily:
  Use a floss threader, interdental brush, or water flosser to clean around and under the dental bridge. Incorporating this habit into your dental routine is essential for removing food debris that a toothbrush can’t reach and minimising plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
• Rinse with antibacterial mouthwash:
  Rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash daily to reduce bacteria and keep it clean and fresh.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods:
  Limit your consumption of hard and sticky foods, which can damage the bridge or loosen it. Choose softer foods that are easier to chew.
• Regular dental check-ups:
  Regular visits to your dentist allow them to check the condition of your dental bridge and detect signs of decay or disease. They can then take immediate action or provide treatment to address the problem.
• Schedule professional cleanings:
  Regular brushing of teeth at home helps reduce plaque buildup. However, a dental scale and clean is essential for an efficient and thorough cleaning of your teeth.

Taking these steps can help promote the lifespan of your dental bridge and maintain your oral health. If you have any concerns about your dental bridges in Joondalup, consult your dentist for personalised advice and recommendations.

Understanding what a dental bridge is can help set expectations for its lifespan. You may expect your dental bridge to last around ten years. However, this varies for each patient based on several factors, which include:

• Oral hygiene:
  Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent decay and gum disease, which can compromise a dental bridge.
• Diet:
  Avoiding hard and sticky foods reduces the risk of damaging the bridge.
• Dental habits:
  Habits like grinding your teeth or chewing ice can shorten the lifespan of your bridge.
• Material quality:
  The type of material used in the bridge affects its durability.

Following the care practices recommended by your dentist and addressing any dental issues promptly can help your dental bridges last a long time.

Dental bridges are generally safe for most suitable patients. Dentists perform comprehensive evaluations to determine if a dental bridge is appropriate for your specific needs. During the evaluation, your dentist will assess your dental health, including the condition of your remaining teeth, gums and bones. This thorough examination helps identify any potential issues that could affect the success of the bridge.

While dental bridges are safe, there are health risks associated with them, just like any dental procedure. Some possible risks include tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or issues related to improper fit. However, these risks are usually minimal and can be managed with proper care and follow-up visits. Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your bridge and monitor its condition to address any concerns promptly.

By following your dentist’s recommendations and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of a safe and effective dental bridge. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your dentist so you can receive the most appropriate care possible.

Dental bridges can be uncomfortable and cause tooth sensitivity during the first few days after placement. Mild soreness or sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures can occur as your mouth adjusts to the new bridge. These reactions are common and usually subside within a few days.

If discomfort persists beyond a week, report this to your dentist. They can assess the situation and make the necessary adjustments to alleviate any ongoing issues. At Joondalup City Dental, we provide tips on managing potential discomfort after getting dental bridges. If you have concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our dental team.

Dental bridges do not cause problems with your speaking; instead, they can improve it. Missing teeth leave gaps that can affect your pronunciation and speech clarity. By filling these gaps, dental bridges help you articulate words more clearly and speak with confidence.

As we mentioned earlier, dental bridges restore the ability to chew food properly. They distribute bite forces evenly, allowing you to eat a variety of foods comfortably. This improved functionality not only makes eating more enjoyable but also supports better nutrition.

If you have concerns about how a traditional bridge might affect your eating or speaking, your dentist can provide personalised advice and reassurance based on your specific situation.

A dental bridge treatment involves several steps to achieve proper fit and function. Here is what you can expect:

1. Initial consultation:
   Your dentist will examine your remaining teeth and take dental X-rays to assess their condition. This is an important step in determining the appropriate approach to performing the procedure.
2. Teeth preparation:
   The teeth adjacent to the gap (also called abutment teeth) will be reshaped to create space to accommodate the crowns that will support the bridge.
3. Impressions:
   Next, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a model for the custom dental bridge. Then, they will send the model to the dental laboratory and use it to fabricate the bridge.
4. Temporary bridge:
   Dental bridge fabrication requires a waiting period. Hence, a temporary bridge will be placed to protect the prepared teeth while the final bridge is being made.
5. Fitting the final bridge:
   Once the final dental bridge is ready, your dentist will fit it and make any necessary adjustments for comfort.
6. Final placement:
   The bridge is secured in place with dental cement and the dentist will check the fit and your bite alignment.

The entire procedure usually requires multiple visits to the dentist over a few weeks. Your dentist will provide detailed care instructions to help care for your new dental bridge. Discussing any concerns with your dentist will help you have a smooth experience.

Once your dental bridge is cemented, you can resume eating normally. However, it is important to be cautious during the initial period. The dental cement needs time to fully adhere, so it is recommended that you opt for soft foods at that time. This helps avoid placing too much pressure on the bridge, allowing the cement to set securely.

Soft foods like yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and soup are recommended choices during this time. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could dislodge or damage the bridge. Gradually, as you feel more comfortable, you can return to your regular diet. Always follow your dentist’s advice and attend follow-up appointments so they can monitor the condition of your restoration and oral health.

If your dental bridge feels loose or uncomfortable, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. This situation requires professional attention to identify the cause and alleviate any discomfort. During your appointment, your dentist will examine your dental bridge and surrounding teeth to determine the issue. They will check for any signs of decay or damage that could be contributing to the discomfort. Depending on the root cause, they may need to adjust or re-cement the bridge or provide treatment for dental issues.

Prompt attention to a loose or uncomfortable bridge helps maintain your oral health and prevents further complications. If you suspect you are prone to or experience problems with your dental restoration, please don’t hesitate to contact Joondalup City Dental. Our team of experienced dentists will conduct a thorough assessment and address the issue immediately.

The dental bridge cost can vary based on several factors. On average, a single dental bridge can cost up to $1,800 per tooth. For a two-tooth cantilever dental bridge with a crown, the price can go up to $4,540.

Several factors can influence the dental bridge cost. These can include the materials used, the complexity of treatment, and the location of the dental clinic. It’s important to discuss the potential cost of treatment with your dentist to get a clear understanding of what to expect.

Considering these costs, it’s also beneficial to check with your health fund to see what portion of the dental bridge cost may be covered. This can help you manage the expenses associated with your treatment.

Most private health funds may cover a portion of the dental bridge cost, depending on your specific policy. Generally, a higher level of plan is required to be eligible for dental cover. It’s essential to review your health fund policy and contact your provider directly to understand the details of your dental cover.

At Joondalup City Dental, dental health care professionals can help answer your questions about health fund cover for dental bridges. We encourage you to book a dental bridge appointment to discuss your options. You can get personalised advice on managing the costs associated with your dental bridge treatment.