If you are searching for a durable way to replace missing teeth, a conventional bridge London, ON at Northwest Family Dental offers a reliable solution. Missing teeth can impact your self-esteem and your overall oral health. Specifically, gaps in your smile may cause remaining teeth to shift out of place. Consequently, this can lead to bite issues or even periodontal disease. Our team provides comprehensive dental services to ensure your smile remains functional and beautiful.
What is a Conventional Bridge?
A conventional bridge is a fixed dental prosthetic that consists of an artificial tooth held in place by dental crowns. These crowns are permanently cemented onto the natural teeth located on either side of the gap. According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), bridges are a common and effective method for restoring oral function after tooth loss.
Moreover, the teeth that support the bridge are known as abutment teeth. The replacement tooth itself is called a pontic. Typically, these restorations are crafted from high-quality porcelain or ceramic to match your natural tooth color. Therefore, the result is a seamless blend with your existing smile. However, the process requires the shaping of the adjacent teeth to accommodate the crowns. Furthermore, this ensures the bridge remains stable and secure during daily activities like eating and speaking.
Benefits of a Conventional Bridge London, ON
Choosing a conventional bridge London, ON provides immediate improvements to your dental alignment and chewing efficiency. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone can begin to deteriorate over time. Additionally, the lack of support can cause your facial muscles to sag. By installing a bridge at Northwest Family Dental, you effectively maintain the structure of your jaw and face.
Specifically, bridges help distribute the forces in your bite properly. Notably, this prevents excessive wear on your other teeth. According to guidelines from the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO), maintaining proper tooth alignment is essential for long-term oral health. Consequently, a bridge is not just a cosmetic fix; it is a vital restorative treatment. Many patients find that their confidence increases significantly once their smile is fully restored. Thus, investing in a bridge is an investment in your overall well-being.
The Procedure at Northwest Family Dental
The process for receiving a bridge usually requires two appointments at our London office. During the first visit, our dentists prepare the abutment teeth by removing a small portion of enamel. This step is necessary to allow space for the crowns. Subsequently, we take highly accurate impressions of your teeth. These impressions serve as a model for the dental laboratory to create your custom bridge.
In the meantime, we provide a temporary bridge to protect your exposed teeth. Once your permanent conventional bridge London, ON is ready, you will return for the fitting. We carefully check the bridge for proper fit and bite alignment. If everything is perfect, we cement the bridge into place. Therefore, you leave our office with a fully functional and beautiful restoration. Furthermore, we provide detailed instructions on how to care for your new bridge to ensure its longevity.
Maintaining Your Dental Bridge
Proper oral hygiene is the most important factor in ensuring the success of your dental bridge. Because the bridge relies on the health of the surrounding teeth, you must keep them free of decay. Specifically, you should brush twice daily and use specialized floss to clean underneath the pontic. Moreover, regular professional cleanings are essential for monitoring the integrity of the restoration.
Additionally, avoiding extremely hard or sticky foods can prevent damage to the porcelain. If you experience any discomfort or notice the bridge feels loose, you should contact us immediately. Consequently, early intervention can prevent more significant issues. With diligent care, a conventional bridge can last for many years. Thus, it remains one of the most cost-effective ways to manage tooth loss today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a conventional bridge last?
With excellent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, a conventional bridge typically lasts between five and fifteen years. Some may even last longer depending on the health of the anchor teeth.
Is the procedure for a dental bridge painful?
No, the procedure is generally not painful because we use local anesthesia to numb the area. You may experience some mild sensitivity afterward, but this usually subsides quickly.
How do I clean under my dental bridge?
You can use a bridge needle or specialized floss (like Super Floss) to slide under the artificial tooth. This helps remove plaque and food particles that a standard toothbrush cannot reach.
Sources & References
- Canadian Dental Association (CDA)
- Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO)
- Northwest Family Dental Clinical Guidelines
