Dental Bridges in Sacramento, CA
What are dental bridges?
When one or more of your teeth are missing, your dentist will most probably use dental bridges to treat this. Dental bridges are, as the name suggests, a common dental treatment that literally bridges gaps between a patient’s missing teeth. A dental bridge consists of mainly two parts – pontics and abutment teeth. Pontics refers to the artificial teeth that are placed to fill the gap, while abutment teeth refer to the dental crowns that hold the pontics in place on both sides of the gap.
Pontics, also known as artificial or replacement teeth may be made from different materials like porcelain, silver amalgam, alloys, or a combination of these materials. When a patient is treated using dental bridges, the dentist can use either their natural teeth for support or implants may have to be used. At Arden Park Dental Care, the dentist will first carefully examine and consult with you, letting you know your best choice for treatment based on your individual condition.
Are you a candidate for a dental bridge?
If you identify with any of the below statements, you may be a suitable candidate for a dental bridge.
- You wish to restore a tooth that that has been fractured
- You wish to replace a filling but you do not have enough remaining tooth
- You wish to protect a tooth that could easily fracture
- You wish to cover up a dental implant
- You wish to cover a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
- You wish to cover a misshapen or discolored tooth
Different types of dental bridges
Today, we have four types of dental bridges to cater to patients’ unique needs and conditions. After your consultation with the dentist, you will be informed on which treatment option is most ideal for you.
Traditional dental bridges
Usually made from porcelain or ceramics fused to metal, these are the most common types of dental bridges. In this method we will create and place dental crowns on both sides of the missing teeth. Next, we will place the artificial teeth or pontics in order to bridge the gap.
Maryland bonded bridges
Maryland bonded dental bridges are also known as resin-bonded bridges. This type of bridge is a minimally invasive alternative to a traditional dental bridge. It does not require extensive modification to neighboring healthy teeth. This bridge features one or more artificial teeth and two small wings. The wings are made of a tooth-colored resin material, so they can attach to the backside of adjacent teeth without affecting the aesthetics of your smile. These restorations are commonly used to replace a single missing tooth, however, Maryland bonded bridges can replace two or more teeth in some cases.
Implant-supported bridges
An implant-supported bridge is similar to a regular dental bridge, with the exception that it is supported by dental implants, rather than crowns fitted over natural teeth. In cases where an implant-supported bridge is used, it is common for one implant to be placed in the jawbone for each missing tooth. The pontics are then connected to each other to form one piece.
Cantilever dental bridges
A Cantilever dental bridge is used when the pontics (false teeth) are supported by a dental crown on one side only, instead of being supported on both sides. In other words, this type of bridge is used when the patient has teeth on only one side of the gap.
Video Testimonials
Carol Jones' Dental Journey to a Beautiful Smile at 90!
My name, my name is Carol Lou Jones. And I will be 90 next year, but I needed this toothwork, this dental work done because my bridge was just broken. And, Dr. Formoli put it together and now I have a beautiful smile. And so I’m very grateful that she did this. It was not a very painful proposition. And it took a lot of time, but then, after all, things that are worth it do take time. So, yes, I’m certainly glad I have it done and I’m very happy ‘cause now I have a nice smile, I think.
In addition to replacing a missing tooth, bridges can be used to improve your mouth’s overall appearance, shape, alignment, and bite. Gaps left by missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift, which can result in a bad bite. Bridges help prevent this from happening. To find out more about which type of bridge is right for you, or to schedule a consultation, contact one of our office staff at Arden Park Dental Care.
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Dr. Shahnaz L. Formoli performed her post-graduate studies at the University of Loma Linda and the University of the Pacific and trained with some of the top Experts with renowned expertise in Cosmetic Anti-Aging dentistry, Implant Dentistry, Soft tissue management, Laser dentistry, and Invisalign, she is a dedicated member of various local and international dental associations.
Dr. Formoli is committed to offering the community the highest quality, Anti-aging Aesthetic, corrective dentistry. In addition to her expertise, she offers Snap-On Smile—a swift, temporary solution as patients prepare for permanent restorative treatments. Her goal is to create an unparalleled experience in dental care, utilizing advanced modern technologies in an old-fashioned warm, compassionate, and friendly environment.
