Dental Bridges

At AV Sierra Dental Center, we understand the importance of a healthy and complete smile. Missing teeth not only affect your appearance but also impact your ability to chew and speak properly. That’s why we offer Palmdale dental bridges as a solution for our patients with one or more missing teeth.

We provide patients with outstanding dental care that blends expertise, technology, and compassion. Our team of experienced professionals is committed to ensuring that every visit is comfortable, convenient, and practical, offering a comprehensive range of services tailored to each patient’s unique needs. 

With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to using the latest dental techniques, we pride ourselves on delivering quality dentistry that addresses immediate concerns and promotes long-term oral health. Whether you’re seeking routine preventive care, cosmetic enhancements, or advanced treatment options, we are here to support your dental health and enhance your smile with the utmost care and precision.

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetic devices that bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap. The natural teeth or implants act as supporting structures for the bridge and help restore function and aesthetics to your smile.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are different types of dental bridges to cater to the specific needs and preferences of our patients. These include:

Traditional Bridges

Traditional bridges consist of one or more pontics placed by dental crowns cemented onto the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This is the most common type of dental bridge and is usually used when there are natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth/teeth.

Cantilever Bridges

Cantilever bridges are similar to traditional bridges, but instead of being anchored by two adjacent teeth, they are anchored by only one. This type of bridge can be effective when only one natural tooth is next to the gap.

Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges include a metal or porcelain framework with one or more pontics attached. The framework is then bonded onto the back of adjacent teeth using resin cement, making it a more conservative option than traditional bridges.

Implant-supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges use dental implants instead of natural teeth as anchor points for the bridge. This type of bridge is ideal for patients who have multiple missing teeth in a row or do not have healthy natural teeth to support a traditional bridge.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

Getting a dental bridge requires two or more visits. Our experienced dentist will assess your oral health during the initial visit and determine if dental bridges are the right solution. If so, they will prepare the supporting teeth or implants by removing a small portion of their enamel to make room for the dental crowns.

Next, our dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab, where skilled lab technicians will create your custom-made bridge. In the meantime, we can fit you with a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.

Once your bridge is ready, you will return for a second visit. Our dentist will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently cementing the bridge.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer numerous benefits, including:

• Restoring functionality: With missing teeth replaced, you can chew and speak properly again, improving your overall quality of life.
• Enhancing appearance: We design dental bridges to look natural and blend in with your surrounding teeth, giving you a beautiful and complete smile.
• Preventing shifting of teeth: When there is a gap in your mouth, adjacent teeth may shift into the space, causing misalignment. Dental bridges help prevent this and maintain the proper alignment of your teeth.
• Preserving jawbone health: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, which can affect the structure of your face. Dental bridges help preserve the underlying jawbone by stimulating it through chewing.

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

A dental bridge represents a significant investment in restoring the functionality and aesthetics of your smile. With proper care, the lifespan of a dental bridge can extend significantly, typically lasting between 5 to 15 years and sometimes even longer. The durability of a dental bridge relies heavily on the foundational health of the adjoining teeth and gums, as well as adherence to rigorous oral hygiene practices. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings play a crucial role in extending the life of your dental bridge by preventing decay and gum disease, which can undermine the supporting structures. Consequently, while the longevity of a dental bridge varies based on individual habits and oral health conditions, a combination of professional dental maintenance and personal care routine can maximize its lifespan, making it a cost-effective and reliable solution for missing teeth.

Caring for Your Dental Bridge

Proper care and maintenance are essential to prolong the lifespan of your dental bridge. Here are some tips on how to take care of your bridge:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily, making sure to clean around the bridge area.
• Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that can damage the bridge.
• Visit our office regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings.

Cost of Dental Bridges

The cost of dental bridges may vary depending on factors such as the type of bridge, the number of missing teeth, and any additional treatments needed. Our dentist will provide you with a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate during your initial consultation.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Bridges?

Navigating the complexities of dental insurance can often feel challenging, especially when understanding coverage for specific procedures, such as dental bridges. Typically, dental insurance plans recognize dental bridges as a significant procedure and, consequently, offer coverage to some extent. However, the extent of this coverage can vary significantly between different insurance providers and the specific plans they offer. It is essential for patients to meticulously review their dental insurance benefits or consult with their insurance representative to understand the coverage details for dental bridges. Often, insurance plans will cover a percentage of the cost of dental bridges, up to 50%, but this can be contingent on the plan’s deductible, annual maximums, and whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary. Understanding these details upfront can significantly aid in managing expectations and planning financially for the procedure.

Palmdale Dental Bridges

At AV Sierra Dental Center, we are committed to helping our patients restore their smiles and improve their oral health. If you have one or more missing teeth, request a consultation today with Dr. Jason Oh, Dr. Shanne Sastiel, Dr. Michael Tran, or Dr. Catherine Vu, and let us help you understand how dental bridges can benefit you. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your needs and provide high-quality, personalized care. 

Let us help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile with our restorative dentistry services in Palmdale, California. Our comprehensive services range from general dentistry to specialized cosmetic and emergency dentistry procedures. We ensure that every aspect of your oral health is covered. Our highly trained professionals employ the latest techniques to provide you with the superior care you deserve. 

We are committed to delivering results that exceed your expectations. So why wait? Book your appointment now!