Bridge the Gap in Your Smile With State-of-the-Art Dental Bridges in Harrisdale

Dental bridges in Harrisdale are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They come in various types to meet different needs and preferences. Here are the most common types of this cutting-edge dental service:

• Traditional bridges:
  These are the commonly used types of dental bridges. Generally, traditional bridges consist of one or more false teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns (abutments) that are cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth. In addition, traditional bridges can be used when there are healthy teeth on both sides of the gap.
  
  
• Cantilever bridges:
  Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges but only require one adjacent tooth for support. A dental crown is placed on the supporting tooth, and the pontic extends out from it. This type of bridge is less common and is usually used in cases where there’s only one healthy tooth next to the gap.
  
  
• Maryland bridges:
  Maryland bridges are a more conservative option that doesn’t require grinding down the adjacent teeth. Instead, the pontic is attached to a metal or porcelain framework, which is then bonded to the backside of the surrounding teeth. This type of bridge is often used to replace front teeth where less chewing force is applied.
  
  
• Implant-supported bridges:
  Implant-supported bridges use dental implants as their primary support rather than relying on natural teeth. One or more dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, and the bridge is then secured to the implants. This type of bridge is considered more stable and long-lasting compared to other options.

Each type of dental bridge has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on factors such as the location of the gap, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and individual preferences. Our dental team will help you determine which type of bridge is right for your specific situation.

The process of placing a dental bridge involves several steps and usually requires at least two dental appointments. Here’s an overview of the procedure:

• Tooth preparation
  During your first appointment, your dentist will prepare the teeth adjacent to the gap for the dental bridge. This involves removing a small portion of the enamel to create enough space for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place.
  
  
• Impressions
  Once the abutment teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. A dental impression will be sent to a dental laboratory, where it will be used to create a custom dental bridge that fits your mouth precisely.
  
  
• Temporary bridge
  While waiting for your custom bridge to be fabricated, your dentist may place a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth and maintain the space for the custom bridge.
  
  
• Bridge placement
  When your custom dental bridge is ready, usually within a few weeks, you will return for a second appointment. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and carefully fit the final bridge. They will check the fit, bite, and overall appearance, making any necessary adjustments before cementing the bridge in place.

Teeth bridges in Harrisdale are generally not painful to place since your qualified health practitioner will numb the area around the teeth with a local anaesthetic to make you comfortable throughout the procedure. You may feel some pressure or vibration during the tooth preparation stage, but it should not be painful.

However, if you have concerns about pain or anxiety during dental procedures, discuss them with your dentist. They can provide options for additional pain management or sedation to help you remain at ease throughout the dental bridge placement process.

After the procedure, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity, or soreness in the managed area, particularly once the anaesthetic wears off. These sensations generally subside within a few days to a week. Over-the-counter pain relievers and following your dentist’s post-treatment care instructions can help alleviate any discomfort you may experience.

The time it takes to get used to a dental bridge can vary from person to person. Generally, patients start feeling comfortable with their new bridge within two weeks. During this adjustment period, you might experience some mild sensitivity or difficulty chewing and speaking.

Adjusting to a new tooth bridge in Harrisdale takes time and patience. To help you adapt more quickly, here are a few tips:

• Start with soft foods:
  Begin by eating soft and easily chewable foods, gradually introducing harder and more complex foods into your diet as you feel more comfortable.
  
  
• Practise speaking:
  Some people might experience minor changes in their speech after getting a dental bridge. Spend time practising speaking and repeating challenging words to help your tongue and mouth muscles adapt to the new structure.
  
  
• Maintain good oral hygiene:
  Keeping your dental bridge and surrounding teeth clean will help maximise the long-term results of your restoration. Brush and floss regularly, and consider using specialised floss, such as a floss threader or a water flosser, to clean around and under the bridge.
  
  
• Follow-up with your dentist:
  Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to check the proper fit and function of your bridge. If you experience persistent discomfort or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated family dental clinic for advice and adjustments.

Taking good care of your tooth bridge in Harrisdale can not only prolong its life but also help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. To keep your tooth bridge strong and functional, here are some friendly tips to help you care for it:

• Brush and floss regularly:
  Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily, taking extra care to clean around and under the bridge. Specialised floss, such as a floss threader or a water flosser, can help you clean hard-to-reach areas.
  
  
• Use a fluoride toothpaste:
  Fluoride toothpaste can help prevent tooth decay and protect the natural teeth and the bridge.
  
  
• Avoid hard or sticky foods:
  Chewing on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or hard candies, can damage the bridge and the supporting teeth. Sticky foods, like caramel and taffy, can also damage the bridge or pull it out of place.
  
  
• Quit smoking:
  Smoking can stain the bridge and damage the supporting teeth and gums, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.
  
  
• Attend regular dental check-ups:
  Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining the health of your teeth and dental bridge. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your bridge and address any issues early on.
  
  
• Consider a mouthguard:
  If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, your dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect your bridge and teeth.
  
  
• Maintain a balanced diet:
  Consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support overall oral health and help extend the life of your dental bridge.

By taking these steps and working closely with our friendly team, you can be confident that your dental bridge will serve you well for many years to come.

Gum disease can affect your eligibility for teeth bridges in Harrisdale, as it can compromise the outcome of the cosmetic procedure. Before getting teeth bridges in Harrisdale, it’s essential to address any existing gum disease to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.

The dentists in our family-friendly dental clinic will conduct a comprehensive dental assessment to determine the extent of your gum disease and recommend dental treatments like scaling and root planing. After the gum disease is under control, we can then proceed with the actual dental bridge procedure. So, if you’re suffering from this dental problem, there’s still hope!

The cost of a dental bridge can vary depending on several factors, including the type of bridge, the materials used, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the dental clinic. On average, the cost of this innovative dental treatment can range from $3,000 to $8,000.

Our caring team at Harrisdale Dental Centre can provide a more accurate cost estimate after conducting a comprehensive examination and designing a treatment plan. Let our friendly staff help you achieve your dream of a complete smile. Reach out to us today to schedule your appointment.

Reach out to us today to schedule your appointment.

If you’re wondering whether your health fund will cover the cost of a dental bridge, the answer is that it may depend on your individual policy. Some major health funds may cover a portion of the cost of a dental bridge, while others may not provide any assistance at all.

It’s always a good idea to check with your health fund provider to determine your specific policy and any out-of-pocket costs you might have to pay. At Harrisdale Dental Centre, we offer a wide range of payment options to help make the cost of a dental bridge more manageable. We’re here to help you get the personalised patient experience you need without straining your budget!