Tooth loss can leave a noticeable gap and change how the teeth come together during biting and chewing. At Advanced Dental Concepts, we provide dental bridges in Laguna Beach for patients considering options to replace one or more missing teeth. Treatment planning considers the location of the gap, surrounding teeth and gums, bite, and available support for the restoration.
When May a Dental Bridge Be Recommended?
When one or more teeth are missing, the resulting gap may affect the appearance of the smile and, depending on its location, make biting or chewing more difficult. Tooth loss may also affect speech in some individuals, although speech changes can have other causes.
A dental bridge is an option for taking the place of missing teeth. Unlike a removable denture, a fixed dental bridge stays in place and is supported by natural teeth or dental implants, depending on its design. The replacement tooth within the bridge, known as a pontic, closes the space left by the missing tooth.
Dental Bridge Options and Treatment Planning
The way a bridge is supported depends on its design. A conventional dental bridge is supported by crowns placed on suitable teeth next to the gap, while an implant-supported bridge is anchored to dental implants. The number and location of missing teeth, condition of the neighboring teeth and gums, bite, and available support all help determine which option may be suitable.
We begin by examining the missing-tooth area, neighboring teeth, gums, and bite. When clinically appropriate, we may also use dental imaging to assess the teeth and supporting structures. If you’re considering an implant-supported bridge, we also evaluate the bone and surrounding tissues as part of treatment planning.
For a conventional bridge, the supporting teeth are prepared for crowns, and records are taken to design the restoration for the space and bite. Once the bridge is ready, the dentist checks its fit and bite before securing it in place. An implant-supported bridge follows a different process because implant placement and healing are part of treatment.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Good oral hygiene is important for maintaining a dental bridge and the surrounding tissues. While the replacement tooth cannot develop decay, the natural teeth supporting a conventional bridge remain susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
Brush the bridge and surrounding teeth regularly, and clean beneath the replacement tooth using the method recommended by the dental team. This helps reduce plaque buildup around the supporting teeth and gums.
Regular dental visits allow the bridge, supporting teeth, and surrounding tissues to be monitored over time. If the bridge becomes loose, damaged, uncomfortable, or feels different when you bite, schedule an evaluation to determine the cause.
Dental Bridge Care in Laguna Beach
Having restorative and implant services available in one office allows the team to evaluate different tooth-replacement options and coordinate care when needed. Digital X-rays and 3-D imaging are also available to support assessment and treatment planning when clinically appropriate.
Patient comfort is considered during visits. Massage dental chairs, noise-canceling headphones, and individual tablets are available for patients who would like additional comfort or distraction during appointments.
If you are searching for dental bridges near me, our Laguna Beach office welcomes patients from Woods Cove, Laguna Village, North Laguna, and Arch Beach Heights.
Schedule a Consultation for a Missing Tooth
If you are missing one or more teeth, schedule an evaluation at our Laguna Beach office. We can examine the area, explain available tooth-replacement options, and discuss whether a dental bridge may be suitable for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A bridge can replace one or more than one missing tooth when suitable support is available.
No. A fixed bridge is secured in place and is not removed by the patient for sleeping or routine cleaning.
Yes. Dental implants can support a bridge in appropriate cases. Implant treatment requires an evaluation to determine suitability.
Yes. Cleaning beneath the replacement tooth and around the supporting teeth or implants is important for maintaining the surrounding tissues.
