Dental Bridges
San Carlos, CA
 At Frank Hsu, D.D.S., we do everything possible to prevent potential tooth decay and dental diseases. However, this is unfortunatey not always possible. We regularly find that some of our patients require restorative treatments, even if they have a strong oral hygiene regimen. If tooth problems like decay becomes severe and a tooth cannot be saved, then an extraction may be necessary. After the extraction, we can offer several restoration options for missing teeth. For some patients, we may recommend a traditional dental bridge.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth, or pontic, that is supported by the two adjacent teeth. These teeth, also known as abutment teeth, are capped with two dental crowns that attach to the pontic. A bridge may be recommended if you are missing one or more teeth.
The gap left by a missing tooth can cause significant complications with your remaining teeth. Eventually, these teeth will compensate for the open space and shift out of their proper position. This can lead to a misalignment with your bite, also known as a malocclusion. Some patients also experience gum disease and TMJ disorders due to this imbalance.
These days a bridge can also be supported by a series of dental implants. A dental implant is a small titanium screw that we surgically embed into the jawbone. These implants act as the root component of a prosthesis, making them the next best thing to your natural teeth. We typically place one implant for each missing tooth in the bridge.
Restoration Materials
These days, most restorations are fabricated using high-quality, long-lasting materials like porcelain and zirconia. These are ceramic compounds that mimic the appearance of natural enamel so well that you can't even tell the difference. Porcelain and zirconia contain the same light-reflective properties as enamel, but also offer durability on par with natural teeth. In fact, in the right circumstances, a ceramic restoration can last for many decades. Another option is composite resin, which is a putty-like material. However, while it is cost-effective, these restorations do not possess the same benefits as their ceramic counterparts.
Schedule an Appointment
Don't ignore your missing teeth. Doing so can only cause more problems down the line. To learn more about our restorative treatments, such as dental crowns, call 650-262-1940 to schedule your appointment today! |
