Dental Bridges Duluth MN
- Correcting Tooth Loss, Dental Bridge
- Dental Bridge Options
- What exactly is a bridge or fixed partial denture?
- Why do I need a bridge?
- How is a bridge attached?
- What materials are used?
- How do I take care of my bridge?
Correcting Tooth Loss, Dental Bridge
All of your teeth play an important role in speaking, chewing, and maintaining proper alignment of other teeth. Tooth loss does not necessarily have to occur as you age. But if you do lose teeth, they must be replaced to maintain proper function of your mouth. Fortunately, there are options for correcting tooth loss.
Dental Bridge Options
A bridge — a device used to replace missing teeth — attaches artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth, called abutment teeth. Bridges are either permanently attached (fixed bridges) or can be removable (removable bridge).
Fixed bridges are applied by either placing crowns on the abutment teeth or by bonding the artificial teeth directly to the abutment teeth. Removable bridges are attached to the teeth with metal clasps or precision attachments.
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be aware of their importance to your appearance and dental health. Your teeth work together for many daily functions from eating to speaking. With missing teeth, it is difficult to do these things. Missing teeth can and should be replaced. Fixed bridges are a great way to restore your dental health and appearance.
What exactly is a bridge or fixed partial denture?
A bridge (fixed partial denture) is a device that fills the gap where teeth are absent. Fixed bridges are bonded into place and can only be removed by a dental professional. Removable bridges, as the name implies, can be taken out and cleaned. Fixed bridges offer more stability than their removable counterparts.
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Why do I need a bridge?
Oral functionality and appearance are important reasons for wearing a bridge. A bridge helps support your lips and cheeks. The loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to sink and your face to look older.
Dental health is the most important reason for a bridge. Teeth were designed to complement each other. Unusual stresses are placed on the gums and other oral tissues when teeth are missing, causing a number of potentially harmful disorders.
Increased risk of gum disease has proven to be one of the worst side effects of missing teeth and can be minimized with a bridge.
Missing teeth can cause speech disorders because they are used to make many of the sounds we use to speak clearly.
How is a bridge attached?
The attachment procedure usually takes two or three appointments to complete. At the first appointment, Dr. Esguerra or Dr. Erickson will prepare the teeth on either side of the gap by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin.
Since the bridge must be fabricated very precisely to ensure the correct bite and to match the opposing tooth, impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab where the bridge will be constructed.
Fixed bridges are typically cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing tooth. A pontic (false tooth) replaces the lost tooth. Crowns, which are cemented onto the natural teeth, provide support for the bridge.
What materials are used?
Bridges can be constructed from gold alloys, non-precious alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Porcelain is often bonded to either a precious or non-precious metal.
How do I take care of my bridge?
A strict regimen of brushing and flossing will keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. This is of critical importance as the bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support.
Dental Implant & Reconstructive Center
Patient Review By Jim S
Everything was great!
- Jim S
Patient Review By Retta F
Excellent caring staff
- Retta F
Patient Review By Monte S
The doctors and staff were wonderful. They made me feel like family here.
- Monte S
Patient Review By Dan A
In my three year experience I am extremely pleased. I appreciate our relationship greatly.
- Dan A
Patient Review By Robyn A
I saw Dr. Esguerra for a consultation regarding the need for a root canal and alternatives. It was a 5 star experience from scheduling through the consultation. Julie was wonderful with scheduling and answering my initial questions. Dr. Esguerra reviewed my CT scan in detail with me and conducted an oral exam. She was very knowledgeable and compassionate. She took all the time needed to provide information on implants and addressed my specific situation. She answered all my questions and I came away with a good plan that I have confidence in. Her office followed up with me after my visit as well. I would most definitely recommend Dr. Esguerra and her practice. I plan to come back if needed.
- Robyn A
Patient Review
Everyone was very friendly and courteous.everone made me feel comfortable even though I was very nervous about my procedure.
- Anonymous
Patient Review By Sara P
I so appreciate the excellent care I've received!
- Sara P
Patient Review By Kathleen R
At first I wasn't sure you could help me. Everything turned out WONDERFUL!
- Kathleen R
Patient Review By Cassie B
Very friendly and welcoming environment! The dental implants were color matched perfectly.
- Cassie B
Patient Review By Peggy S
Best people to work with on what started out as a highly stressful situation. I couldn't be happier with the outcome!
- Peggy S
Patient Review By Ann G
I was very impressed with the professionalism of the staff at Dental Implants. Everything was explained to me in great detail and I was pleased with the final results. I would highly recommend Dr. Roxanna Esguerra to anyone seeking specialized dental work. I consider her the best in the business.
- Ann G
Patient Review By Josephine P
I'm so happy with the fit of my dentures. I would recommend this clinic to all of my friends! Very pleased with everything!
- Josephine P
Patient Review By Ann W
Wonderfulunderstanding new friends
- Ann W
Patient Review By Nann E
You are "ALL" a fabulous, kind, and very professional and knowledgeable bunch!! I will miss you. Thankyou for taking care of me for this past year.
- Nann E
Patient Review By Cheri C
Excellent experience! Doc and Staff excellent..over and beyond in compassion, comfort and skill/knowledge...extremely pleasant/friendly ...will definitely recommend, my end product is perfect!!!!!
- Cheri C
Patient Review By David H
Wonderful. Best Dentist ever
- David H
Patient Review By Peggy R
Julie's kindness and compassion when I first made my appointment and when I had my consultation was one of the main reasons I went ahead with my bonding procedure.Dr. Esguerra is so professional, thorough and so very skilled. She even called me the evening prior to my procedure to make sure I didn't have any concerns. I feel like a new person now and can smile proudly. Thank you so very much!
- Peggy R
Patient Review By Donna P
The staff was very professional and I am 100% pleased!
- Donna P
Patient Review By Maurice B
Great experience from beginning to end.
- Maurice B
Patient Review By Elizabeth B
I've lived all over the United States and have frequent flyer miles in many dentist chairs. I've received the highest quality of care, compassion and professionalism from the staff and Dr. Erickson. They make me feel like family.
- Elizabeth B