Bridges
We are happy to provide a variety of dental solutions to our patients in Moonee Ponds, Sunbury, and surrounding areas. On our menu of services, the dental bridge is a treatment solution for missing teeth. A longstanding dental treatment, a bridge fills the gap left by a lost tooth, restoring both form and function. Customised for fit, shape, and colour, a dental bridge becomes a permanent structure in the mouth.
Filling the space left after the loss of a tooth is necessary for ongoing oral health. When there is extra space, teeth around the gap shift out of position, creating misalignment, and oral health problems can occur. Treatment with a dental bridge may be the ideal solution for the patient who is not a good candidate for, or does not wish to undergo dental implant treatment. Within just a few visits with your Smile in Style dentist, your dental bridge will be in place and fully functional.
To begin the treatment process, teeth and gums will be evaluated by your dentist in an oral health review. This will ensure that surrounding structures are adequate for the support of a dental bridge. The entire appliance consists of two dental crowns, fused to an artificial tooth. These two crowns will be designed to replicate the teeth on each side of a gap, and the artificial tooth will blend in seamlessly.
In order to accommodate the dental crowns, the teeth on each side of the empty space will be slightly modified in shape. A digital impression is then taken with our CEREC machine which enables us to either design the bridge in house, or forward the file to a laboratory for completion of the bridge. Labs require about a week to complete the bridge out of Zirconia and/ or Emax for a high strength, non-metallic result. During this time, you may wear a temporary appliance so that you can feel confident in chewing, speaking, and smiling. At the next visit the bridge is checked for fit and colour. If all is ok the bridge is then cemented with strong cement.
Maintaining a dental bridge is easy. Our hygienist will work with you towards optimal at-home oral hygiene practices so that your dental work lasts a decade or more.
You can have a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us to schedule your visit to Smile in Style.
