Dental Bridges Naples
Bridge the Gap and Renew Your Smile
Tooth loss is extraordinarily common — millions of people have at least one missing tooth! If you are among them, we encourage you to explore your options for tooth replacement. Here in our Naples office, Dr. Makram and our team offer high-quality treatments that can renew your smile and close pesky gaps. One such treatment is dental bridges. Continue reading below to learn more about this option, or contact our office to set up a tooth replacement consultation.
Why Choose Mark M. Makram, DDS, for Dental Bridges?
- Lifelike Metal-Free Restorations
- Results that Last for Years
- Dental Insurance Welcomed
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a multi-unit dental prosthetic that is designed to span gaps in the dental arches where teeth have been removed. Usually, they replace 1 – 3 teeth in a row, though in some cases, they can be used for more extensive tooth replacement. They can be made of various materials, but our office tends to favor lifelike options such as porcelain and ceramic; these are very strong and blend in seamlessly with the surrounding dentition.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are a few different types of dental bridges, each of which comes with a unique set of pros and cons. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your case and recommend the type of restoration that best fits your situation. Depending on what we discover, we might determine that you should get either a traditional dental bridge or an implant bridge.
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge is also known as a fixed bridge. It has a crown on each end, which we attach to the teeth that surround the gap in your smile (called the abutment teeth). This treatment process takes just a few appointments and can provide reliable function for 10 years or longer.
Implant Bridges
Whereas a traditional dental bridge gets attached to natural teeth, an implant bridge is anchored in the jawbone via prosthetic tooth roots. The implant posts get placed at each end of the gap in your smile, and then a bridge is secured to their top. Implant bridges are very strong and can help to keep the jawbone healthy and whole. They also do not require that any abutment teeth be modified.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Bridge
Failing to replace a missing tooth can bring about some serious consequences. For example, your remaining teeth might drift out of place; you could even be at an increased risk of additional tooth loss. Your self-esteem, confidence, and ability to eat your favorite foods might also take a hit.
A dental bridge can address all of those issues. Not only does it serve as a placeholder that keeps teeth where they belong, but it can also improve oral function and provide pleasing aesthetics.
Are you ready to replace your missing teeth? Our team is eagerly waiting to assist you!
Dental Bridges FAQs
How Long Should a Dental Bridge Last?
It is common for dental bridges to last up to 15 years, but the timeframe will ultimately depend on how well you take care of your new teeth. While the materials used to create your bridge can play a role in its lifespan, you must take responsibility for how you clean and maintain your smile. If you have a bridge to replace teeth toward the back of your mouth, it’s unlikely to last as long because these areas sustain more wear and tear.
Otherwise, as long as you keep your teeth cleaned, continue to see your dentist regularly, and avoid unhealthy habits like eating ice or playing sports without a mouthguard, your bridge can last a decade or more.
Can Dental Bridges Be Whitened?
No, you cannot whiten a dental bridge. Crafted from porcelain or zirconia, these materials are not porous like natural tooth enamel. They cannot absorb the whitening agent that is used to remove stains and discoloration.
If you’re unhappy with the color of your teeth, ask your dentist about undergoing teeth whitening before receiving your dental bridge. This will ensure that your new prosthetic matches your brighter smile from the start. You may also choose to replace your bridge to match the rest of your smile if you prefer.
Can Dental Bridges Get Cavities?
You will be pleased to learn that dental bridges cannot develop cavities. Bacteria and food particles cannot penetrate artificial materials; however, this doesn’t mean you can relax your oral hygiene routine. Instead, you need to stay on top of your brushing and flossing, as all of your natural teeth remain vulnerable. Also, the same bacteria that attack enamel can also affect your gum tissues.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and health while wearing a bridge is essential if you want it to last, so be sure to brush regularly, floss at least once a day (also getting underneath your bridge), and rinse to flush out any remaining food particles left behind.
How Many Teeth Can a Dental Bridge Replace?
A dental bridge in Naples will generally replace anywhere from one to four missing consecutive teeth. Attempting to replace any more than four will put the bridge at risk of instability. This is why talking to a member of our team about your options is pivotal. Not only will it ensure that you receive the appropriate prosthetic to replace your missing teeth, but that it also lasts as long as possible.
