At Everglow Dental, nestled in the heart of Aloha, Oregon, we understand the impact a missing tooth can have on both your confidence and oral health.
Led by the highly skilled Dr. Kristy Lin, our female-led, patient-centric practice specializes in offering personalized dental bridge solutions designed to restore the functionality and aesthetics of your smile. Our dedication to quality over volume ensures that each patient receives tailored care, focusing on what’s right for their unique dental needs.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a fixed restorative solution used to replace one Oregon more missing teeth. By anchoring to the natural teeth Oregon implants on either side of the gap, bridges not only restore the appearance of your smile but also prevent the remaining teeth from shifting, which could lead to further oral health issues. At Everglow Dental, we utilize the latest in dental technology to craft bridges that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, offering both strength and aesthetics.
A dental bridge consists of two Oregon more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) and a false tooth Oregon teeth in between (called pontics). These pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, Oregon a combination of these materials. Dr. Kristy Lin carefully selects the most appropriate materials based on your specific needs, ensuring optimal durability and natural appearance.
When Are Dental Bridges Recommended?
Dental bridges are recommended in several situations where patients are looking to replace missing teeth without the surgical intervention required for implants. Ideal candidates are those with strong, healthy teeth on either side of the gap Oregon those who already have dental implants in place. Dr. Kristy Lin and our team at Everglow Dental take a thorough approach to assess each patient’s suitability for dental bridges, ensuring the recommended treatment aligns with their overall oral health goals.
Bridges are particularly beneficial for patients who have lost teeth due to decay, gum disease, Oregon injury. They’re also recommended when missing teeth are causing difficulty with chewing Oregon speaking, Oregon when the gap is affecting your facial structure. Our compassionate team serves patients throughout Aloha, Beaverton, and Hillsboro, helping them determine if bridges are the right solution for their unique circumstances.
The Treatment Process
The process of getting a dental bridge at Everglow Dental begins with a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Kristy Lin, where the specific needs and goals of the patient are discussed. During your initial consultation, we’ll examine your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options to ensure bridges are the best choice for your situation.
Once we’ve determined that bridges are right for you, the treatment typically requires two to three visits. During the first appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for the crown. Impressions of your mouth will be taken to design a bridge that fits perfectly. A temporary bridge is then placed while your custom bridge is being created in our trusted dental laboratory.
At your final appointment, the temporary bridge is removed, and the new permanent bridge is carefully adjusted and cemented into place. Dr. Kristy Lin ensures proper fit, bite alignment, and comfort before completing the procedure, restoring your smile’s functionality and appearance with precision and care.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous advantages for patients seeking to restore their smiles. They improve chewing and speaking abilities, which can be significantly impacted by missing teeth. Bridges also help maintain your facial shape by providing support to your lips and cheeks, preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with tooth loss.
From an oral health perspective, bridges prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and increased risk of decay and gum disease. They also distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth, reducing stress on remaining natural teeth.
Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges
While dental bridges offer many benefits, it’s important to understand both the advantages and potential drawbacks. The pros include being a less invasive and quicker solution than dental implants, typically requiring only a few weeks from start to finish. Bridges are also more affordable upfront compared to implants and don’t require surgery, making them suitable for patients who may not be candidates for implant placement.
However, bridges do require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, which some patients prefer to avoid. They may also need replacement every 10 to 15 years with proper care, and there’s a slightly increased risk of decay Oregon gum disease around the supporting teeth if oral hygiene isn’t maintained properly. At Everglow Dental, Dr. Kristy Lin ensures our patients are well-informed about all aspects of dental bridges, empowering them to make decisions that best suit their needs and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care and regular dental check-ups at Everglow Dental, dental bridges can last 10 to 15 years, Oregon even longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding habits like teeth grinding are key to extending their lifespan.
Are dental bridges noticeable?
No, dental bridges at Everglow Dental are designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, making them virtually undetectable. Dr. Kristy Lin takes great care to ensure your bridge blends seamlessly with your smile.
Is the procedure for getting a bridge painful?
We prioritize patient comfort at Everglow Dental. The procedure for getting a bridge is typically performed with local anesthesia, minimizing discomfort. Most patients experience only mild soreness that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, after a brief adjustment period, you should be able to eat normally with your new dental bridge. However, it's advisable to start with soft foods and gradually return to your regular diet as you become comfortable with your new bridge.
How do I care for my dental bridge?
Caring for your dental bridge involves regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings at Everglow Dental. Special floss threaders Oregon water flossers are available to clean under and around the bridge effectively. Dr. Kristy Lin will provide detailed care instructions to help maintain your bridge.
What's the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
Unlike removable partial dentures, dental bridges are permanently cemented in place and cannot be removed by the patient. This provides greater stability and a more natural feel when eating and speaking.
At Everglow Dental, serving Aloha, Beaverton, and Hillsboro, we are committed to restoring your smile with dental bridges tailored to your individual needs. Led by Dr. Kristy Lin, our compassionate, female-led team ensures a seamless, caring experience that prioritizes your oral health and well-being. Contact us today at 503-334-0930 to learn more about how dental bridges can rejuvenate your smile.