Cosmetic Dentist Las Vegas | Dr. Tony Tomaro

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to restore your teeth when one or more of them are missing. In order for a bridge to be placed, the surrounding teeth must be in good enough shape to hold the crowns that support the bridge.

The Fixed Bridge
A fixed dental bridge is a natural-looking false tooth, which is fused between two porcelain crowns to fill in the open space created by a missing tooth. The two surrounding porcelain crowns are bonded to your natural teeth to hold the false tooth in place. Fixed dental bridges can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Since they are bonded to your natural teeth, fixed bridges cannot be removed like you can do with removable partial dentures. At the same time, they are a more permanent, comfortable and functional alternative to removable dentures.

Why You May Need a Bridge
When you have a loose tooth or one that is missing, the areas of empty space between your teeth can begin to cause problems for your remaining teeth. You are also more susceptible to gum disease in those areas. Deciding to have a bridge placed can aid in preventing such problems as:

• Speech issues
• Exposure to gum disease
• Shifting of teeth
• Issues with neuromuscular function (your bite)

As with any other dental procedure, it is important to be sure you are fully informed about your options and the details when choosing to have a bridge placed. At Exceptional Dentistry in Las Vegas, Nevada, Cosmetic Dentist, Dr. Tony Tomaro makes it his goal to take part in a lengthy consultation with each and every one of his prospective patients to be sure they will work well together.

Questions About Dental Bridges

What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a tooth replacement option. The replacement tooth is natural looking and can be colored and shaped to blend nicely with your natural teeth. Unlike dental implants, a dental bridge requires that the healthy teeth around the missing tooth be prepared to support the bridge.

A fixed bridge is the most common type of bridge and requires that the surrounding strong teeth have dental crowns bonded to them. These two crowns hold the replacement tooth in place. A fixed bridge cannot be removed and does not shift or fall out of place. This tooth replacement option is permanent and helps support a healthy smile.

What is a dental bridge for?
A dental bridge is used to restore your smile by replacing missing teeth. The teeth surrounding the gap with the missing tooth need to be strong enough to hold the supporting dental crowns for the bridge.

How do I know if I need a dental bridge?
You need a dental bridge if you have:

• One or more missing teeth
• Shifting teeth due to a missing tooth
• A tooth that is decaying and needs to be removed
• Neuromuscular problems and difficulty with jaw alignment

What are the advantages to having a dental bridge?
Choosing to have a dental bridge can relieve several dental issues such as:

• Shifting or moving teeth
• Difficulty speaking and eating
• Pain in your jaw, facial muscles, and neck
• Neuromuscular issues and TMD symptoms
• Increased exposure to gum disease and infection

Missing teeth leave a large gap between your teeth and in your jawbone. This gap may cause several issues and leave your teeth susceptible to shifting. Teeth tend to move around when they have extra space surrounding them. Your teeth may shift causing crooked teeth and pain. The exposed gum is more likely to develop gum disease. A replacement tooth will prevent these issues and add to your overall health.

How can I schedule a dental bridge consultation?
Please contact our Las Vegas Cosmetic Dentistry Office to schedule an initial dental bridges consultation to discuss your tooth replacement options.