B L O G

January 14, 2010

Replace missing teeth with dental bridge from Weybridge dentist

A dental bridge is one of the simplest ways to restore the appearance of a lost or knocked out tooth that also preserves its functionality and dental health benefits. It is important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible, as even one vacant space in the dental arc can have a severe negative impact on the remaining teeth.

Missing teeth can leave hollows which harbour dangerous plaque forming bacteria, which will then attack other teeth. This is especially true for patients who have already lost teeth to decay or infection. Theses hollows are very difficult to clean thoroughly and need to be filled with a dental prosthetic. Vacant tooth spaces can also encourage movement within the dental arc that can result in bite interruption and painful jaw and joint conditions.

Dental bridges literally bridge the gap between missing teeth acting as a rigid support, filling in any hollow preventing the build up of bacteria and restoring the use of a functional tooth. The bridge itself is an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, attached on either side with a dental crown. The pontic is attached to the crowns using either dental bonding or resin bonded strips.

A dental bridge from a Weybridge dentist can last up to fifteen years if properly maintained, serving all the purposes of a real tooth and looking cosmetically accurate. The pontic can be specifically matched to the other teeth in the mouth for the most lifelike appearance. Dental bridges are one of the most affordable solutions to losing a tooth and don’t involve the unnecessary hassle of a less permanent replacement such as plate or partial denture.

December 17, 2009

Fixed dental bridge from Surbiton dentist replaces missing teeth

A dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthetic used to fill a hole caused by a missing tooth. Unlike many other dental devices used to repair missing teeth, such as partial dentures, a dental bridge is not removable and is cemented to adjacent teeth often using dental crowns.

Bridges are recommended by dentists to fill holes left by missing teeth. Teeth can be lost for a number of reasons ranging from dental trauma causing a tooth to be knocked out to teeth lost due to dental decay. Gaps caused by missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to rotate and shift into the vacant spaces. This causes an imbalance in bite which can lead to painful jaw conditions known as TMJ.

Bridges are commonly used to replace one or more missing teeth using artificial teeth supported by crowns to span the gap. The adjacent healthy teeth used as a base for the crowns are known as abutments, which support the artificial bridging teeth called pontics. Bridges and crowns can be made from a number of materials but the most authentic is probably porcelain with some composite resin bonding. This is durable and strong and can be matched to the colour of exiting teeth.

A dental bridge from a Surbiton dentist can last a lifetime if properly maintained but they can on occasion break or come loose. It is important to have regular check ups with a dentist to assess the condition of the bridge and address the need for any repairs.

December 11, 2009

Natural-looking dental bridge from Worcester Park dentist replaces missing tooth

A dental bridge is an artificial dental substitute used to fill a gap in the dental arc caused by a missing tooth. It is constructed using a dental crown on either side of the gap attached to an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, which bridges them together.

Missing teeth can be the source of great embarrassment and can cause patients to suffer a loss of confidence and self-esteem. Missing teeth can also have a negative physiological impact. Hollows left by missing teeth can be breeding grounds for bacteria because they are difficult to clean with conventional brushes. Gaps in the dental arc can also cause other teeth to move about and lean altering the bite. This can cause painful jaw conditions known as TMJs and sub-conscious teeth grinding called bruxism.

Teeth also act as rigid supports for facial tissue, so if one or more teeth is missing it can cause sagging, which makes the patient look much older. This sagging becomes irreversible if not remedied within a certain time. Dental bridges can help maintain facial structure and limit alteration to voice and profile.

There are three types of dental bridge known as the traditional fixed bridge, the resin-bonded bridge and the cantilever bridge. Each bridge has a specific use depending on the condition of the existing teeth and position of the missing tooth in the arc. Bridges are made of a combination of metal, resin bonding and porcelain. For the more extroverted patient there is also the option of a silver or gold dental bridge.

A dental bridge is a natural looking alternative to a real tooth that can last up to ten years if properly maintained. Bridges should be brushed and flossed daily like normal teeth. It may also be necessary to avoid certain hard foods which may cause damage to the bridge. A dental bridge can usually be fitted in two appointments by a Worcester Park dentist and costs significantly less that some other dental substitutes such as dental implants.

November 21, 2009

Shepperton dentist replace missing tooth with dental bridge

Patients who have a missing tooth, either from accident or injury or due to dental problems such as decay, can feel embarrassed about the gap in their smile. A missing tooth can cause confidence and esteem issues and make people reluctant to smile. As well as causing psychological problems, a missing tooth can also be responsible for several physiological conditions. Because teeth act as rigid supports for facial muscles, a missing tooth can cause sagging of the facial muscles and negative changes in profile. Remaining teeth are inclined to lean into the space caused by a missing tooth, which can cause uncomfortable issues with bite. Missing teeth can also provide hollows that can become a breeding ground for bacteria, as they are difficult to clean.

For these reasons it is important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible. One of the most common dental procedures to replace an absent tooth is a dental bridge. This is when an artificial tooth, or pontic, is secured to existing teeth on either side by dental crowns or bonding, creating the image of a full set. Dental bridges can be used to fill one or more empty spaces

There are several main types of dental bridge including the traditional fixed bridge where the pontic is fused to crowns on either side; the resin bonded bridge where the pontic is fused to existing teeth with strips of metal and resin; and the cantilever bridge where there are only existing teeth on one side of the gap so the pontic is attached to two or more teeth on that side.

A dental bridge will usually be fitted in two or three visits to the dentist. The dentist will need to take dental moulds prior to installation so that work can begin on the bridge in the laboratory. A dental bridge is a solid alternative to real teeth. It can act as support for facial muscles preventing the abovementioned sagging. If a dental bridge is properly cared for it can last up to seven years. Good standards of oral hygiene and regular dental check ups will help you preserve the bridge for as long as possible. Ask a Shepperton dentist about the replacing your missing teeth with a dental bridge as soon as possible.

May 13, 2009

Confident Smiles with Dental Bridges from Worcester Park dentist

It is not surprising that individuals with missing teeth are self conscious about how they look. In addition to this, having gaps can result to other dental problems like temporomandibular joint disorder and malocclusion. But all these can be solved by a couple of visits to your Worcester Park dentist for a dental bridge.

For a long time now, dental bridges have been among the popular treatment for missing teeth. They also come in different kinds:

• Resin – bonded type: a kind of dental bridge that does not require extensive preparation of the nearby teeth as long as you have healthy gums and the other teeth do not contain much filling. This kind is best if you are missing your front teeth.

• Cantilever and conventional types: unlike the resin-bonded type, these two require extensive preparation of the nearby teeth primarily because crowns are placed and attached.

If you are interested in having a dental bridge, you should know that it requires at least three visits.

The first visit will involve the dentist checking whether you are qualified for such a procedure while the second visit will involve the dentist obtaining a teeth impression to be used for the fabrication of your dental bridge. The last visit will involve the putting of the dental bridge permanently in place.

Cost for such procedure ranges from £1000 to £1500, depending on your needs. Of course, you can rely on your dentist to provide you with quality dental bridges so you can enjoy your money’s worth.

March 7, 2009

Custom-made Dental Bridges from Worcester Park Dentist

If you have gaps in your teeth, then you might want to consider getting a dental bridge. Considered to be one of the most effective solutions to replacing missing teeth, dental bridges can prevent worsening of the gaps as well as improve chewing and bite.

Dental bridges can actually be supported by implants, natural teeth or combination or both. They can also be classified into traditional or bonded dental bridges. In addition, they can be made from porcelain or metal alloy-porcelain.

There are also different types of dental bridges:

• Cantilever – held by one or several crowns on just one side
• Maryland-bonded – a type of bonded dental bridge that features a winged- metal framework; also referred to as resin-bonded dental bridge
• Traditional – attachment of the false teeth to the natural teeth or implants located on the sides of the space, filling the gap.

Compared to bonded bridges, traditional bridges are considered to be more expensive because the teeth adjacent to the space or gap will require more preparation. On the bright side, they are definitely more durable. Of course, with the assistance of your Worcester Park dentist, you can easily choose which dental bridge will meet you needs as well as budget.

The entire process will most likely require at least two visits: the first one will involve the preparation of the teeth and making impressions and the succeeding visits will involve the fitting of the dental bridge.

Typically, a dental bridge from The Mulberry dental can last for as long as 15 years as long as you provide it with proper attention and care. An excellent hygiene program is required along with proper diet and regular visits to your dentist.

November 8, 2008

Dental Bridges at Kingston upon Thames Dental Clinic

Kingston upon Thames dentists will use dental bridges to replace your missing tooth or teeth. Several types of dental bridges can be designed and fabricated, but this depends upon your individual circumstances. Included in these are traditional bridges, canti-lever bridges, and bridges that are fixed inside the mouth using a composite or resin material. Your Kingston upon Thames dentist will examine your teeth and then review a treatment plan with you to replace your missing teeth. While presenting this treatment plan, your dentist will go over the different types of bridges available, and the one that best suits you, along with its advantages and disadvantages. After agreeing to have a bridge made to replace your teeth, the dentist still use local anaesthesia to numb the area, and will use diamond drills to prepare the teeth to be used to hold the new bridges. When the preparations are completed, the dentist will take an impression of this area of your mouth using a type of dental putty, an opposing impression, a bite registration, and will then pick the appropriate shade from a shade guide. Following these procedures, a temporary acrylic bridge will be made for you to wear until your final bridge is ready for insertion. This temporary bridge will keep you teeth from moving, and will protect your teeth from sensitivity.
A missing tooth or teeth can cause bite problems and change the appearance of your mouth and/or the way your mouth functions, leading to TMJ and other complicated problems. At the Kingston upon Thames dental clinic, you will receive a complete detailed dental examination before a decision is made to perform bridgework in your mouth. All of the options will be explored and discussed with you. The dentist will make sure that you have optimal bone structure that will allow the bridge to be successful for many years thereafter.

October 18, 2008

Need a Dental Bridge? Visit your Worcester Park Dental Clinic

If you have a tooth or numerous teeth missing, and do not want you wear a removable denture, then a fixed dental bridge is for you. Your Worcester Park dentist will explain the benefits of dental bridges, which are prosthetic teeth made of porcelain, metal or gold, or a combination of porcelain and metal/gold that use the adjacent teeth for support and anchorage. These supporting teeth are referred to as abutment teeth, while the missing teeth that are replaced are referred to as pontic teeth. For every tooth that needs replacing, you like to have one supporting tooth at least, if not more.
A dental bridge or bridges will be recommended by your Worchester Park dentist if you have one or several teeth missing that effect your ability to eat. Other reasons to replace your missing teeth with a fixed dental bridge are if: your appearance and smile are affected, your teeth are starting to shift or your bite is collapsing; your speech is affected; and, there is a change to the shape of your face, along with numerous other reasons.
There are several different types of fixed dental bridges; by fixed it is meant that they are not removable. There are several designs of fixed dental bridges, where the adjacent teeth are prepared the same way that crowns are prepared, and the impressions are taken, along with a bite registration and shade, and are sent to a dental laboratory with instructions. Different designs are also available for the pontic tooth of the bridge, depending upon where the missing tooth is located and the hygiene needs of the patient. There are also resin-retained bridges and cantilever bridges. Resin bonded bridges are usually used in the anterior sections of the mouth, when the teeth are in good shape, and both the dentist and the patient do not want solid tooth structure removed unnecessarily. Very little of the inner of the adjacent teeth are removed and the pontic is bonded to the adjacent teeth by metal wings made to conform to those teeth. Cantilever bridges are usually made when teeth abutments are only on one side of the edentulous (toothless) space. Dental bridges can last a long time, especially if you take good care of them and your overall oral hygiene. Fixed bridges are natural in appearance and tend to be much more stable than removable bridges, partials, or full dentures.

September 9, 2008

Bridging the Gap at Worcester Park

Dental bridges are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. There are different types of dental bridges, including conventional-fixed bridges, cantilever, and resin retained bridges. These will all be explained to you in great detail when you visit you Worchester Park dentist. Fixed conventional and cantilever bridges require that the adjacent teeth are shaped into barrel-shaped or peg-shaped teeth, and then a bridge is fabricated to replace the original teeth forms and function and be attached to a pontic. A pontic is shaped like the crown of the missing tooth and usually touches the gum tissue between the two or more abutment teeth (i.e., existing teeth that were prepared for the bridge), or in some cases the pontic is shaped to allow for easier cleaning. A cantilever bridge is designed just the way it sounds. Two or more teeth are prepared next to each other, and then the pontic is fabricated in the toothless space next to the abutment tooth, with no attachment or just a rest seat on the other side. A resin-bonded bridge requires much less tooth preparation than a conventional or cantilever bridge, and is most often used to replace a front tooth.
Missing teeth can cause your bite to collapse down onto itself and alter the functioning and appearance of your mouth. It may also affect your smile, and cause shifting of your existing teeth, temporomandibular joint problems, and many other problems.
Your Worcester Park dentist will perform a complete dental examination, including radiographs, and study models, prior to making a decision about providing you with a fixed bridge. Your soft and hard tissues supporting your other teeth should be in excellent shape before the dentist begins this process, in order to prevent loss of supporting bone around your other teeth. The dentist will also make sure that your other teeth are biting satisfactorily and without interferences. The laboratory will shape your teeth adjacent to the edentulous space and fabricate a temporary bridge out of dental acrylic. This way, after the dentist prepares your teeth, the temporary bridge will be placed to keep your teeth from shifting. The dentist anaesthetizes the area that will be worked on, and the appropriate teeth will be prepared. After the preparation, gingival cord will be placed around the prepared teeth in order to get a good impression of the teeth margins, and then impressions will be taken by the dentist of the prepared segment and the teeth opposing the bridge area. A bite registration and tooth shade will also be taken by the dentist, and all of these will be sent to the laboratory so that a bridge can be fabricated, either using porcelain fused to gold, gold, or porcelain. This depends on the strength desired and the location of the bridge. The temporary bridge is then cemented in the area where the teeth were prepared, and touched-up to fit properly. After 1-2 weeks, the dentist receives the bridge from the laboratory, and you will be scheduled for an appointment to have your new bridge placed and cemented.