Trusted Dental Bridges In Pretoria CBD: Book Now

Welcome to Smile Perfection, your trusted dental practice in Pretoria specializing in high-quality dental bridge solutions. 

Our experienced team of dental professionals is dedicated to helping you restore your smile, oral health, and confidence. 

With advanced techniques and personalized care, we provide exceptional dental bridge services that can transform your smile and improve your overall well-being.

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. 

They consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are securely anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. 

Dental bridges not only restore the appearance of your smile but they also help maintain the integrity of your bite and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.

At Smile Perfection, we offer various types of dental bridges, including traditional bridges, cantilever bridges, and implant-supported bridges.

Our skilled team in Pretoria will carefully evaluate your oral health and recommend the most suitable type of dental bridge for your specific needs.

Types 

The specific type of dental bridge recommended for a patient depends on several factors, including the location of the missing teeth, the condition of the surrounding teeth, and the individual’s oral health.

Here are some common types of dental bridges:

1. Traditional Dental Bridge: This is the most common type of bridge. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are held in place by dental crowns attached to the teeth adjacent to the gap.
2. Cantilever Dental Bridge: This type of bridge is used when there is only one adjacent tooth next to the gap. The pontic is supported by a dental crown on a single side.
3. Maryland Dental Bridge (Resin-bonded bridge): In this type of bridge, the artificial tooth is held in place by a metal or porcelain framework that is bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. It requires minimal preparation of the adjacent teeth.
4. Implant-Supported Dental Bridge: This type of bridge is supported by dental implants instead of adjacent natural teeth. Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, and the bridge is attached to the implants. This option is used when multiple teeth are missing or when adjacent teeth are not strong enough to support a traditional bridge.
5. Hybrid Dental Bridge (All-on-4 or All-on-6 Bridge): This type of bridge is used to replace a full arch of missing teeth. It combines dental implants and a fixed bridge restoration to provide a stable and functional solution for edentulous patients (those missing all their teeth).

The selection of the appropriate dental bridge depends on various factors, including the patient’s oral health, the number of missing teeth, the location of the gap, and the patient’s preferences. 

It is best to consult with a dentist or prosthodontist to determine the most suitable type of dental bridge for your specific situation.

Preparation

Before the dental bridge procedure, there are a few things that patients can do to prepare:

1. Schedule a Consultation: The first step in preparing for a dental bridge procedure is to schedule a consultation with a dentist. During the consultation, the dentist will examine the patient’s mouth, take X-rays if needed, and discuss the best treatment options.
2. Inform the Dentist of Medications and Health Conditions: It is important for patients to inform the dentist of any medications they are taking, as well as any health conditions they may have. This information can affect the type of anesthesia used during the procedure and can help the dentist plan for any potential complications.
3. Plan for Aftercare: Patients should plan for aftercare before the procedure. This may include arranging for someone to drive them home after the procedure if they will be sedated, taking time off work to rest and recover, and stocking up on soft foods to eat during the recovery period.
4. Follow Pre-Procedure Instructions: The dentist may provide specific instructions to follow before the procedure. These may include avoiding food and drink for a certain amount of time before the procedure, taking antibiotics to prevent infection, and stopping certain medications.

By following these preparation steps, patients can help ensure a smooth and successful dental bridge procedure.

Procedure

A dental bridge is a restorative dental procedure that replaces one or more missing teeth by bridging the gap with a prosthetic tooth or teeth. 

Here is what patients can expect during the dental bridge procedure:

1. Numbing or Anesthesia: To minimize discomfort during the procedure, the dentist will numb the area around the missing tooth or teeth with local anesthesia. In some cases, if the patient is particularly anxious, the dentist may offer sedation to help them relax.
2. Preparing the Teeth: The teeth on either side of the gap will need to be prepared to receive the dental bridge. This involves removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place.
3. Taking Impressions: Once the teeth are prepared, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth and the gap. These impressions will be used to create a custom-made bridge that fits perfectly in the patient’s mouth.
4. Fitting the Bridge: The bridge will be fabricated in a dental lab and will typically take a few weeks to complete. Once it is ready, the patient will return to the dentist’s office to have it fitted onto the teeth. The dentist will use a special adhesive to attach the bridge to the prepared teeth, and the patient will be given instructions on how to care for it.

During the procedure, patients may feel some discomfort or pressure, but it should not be painful. 

The dentist will work to minimize any discomfort by using local anesthesia and taking breaks as needed. 

After the procedure, patients may experience some sensitivity, but this should subside within a few days.

Benefits

• Restored Functionality: Dental bridges allow you to speak clearly, eat a wide range of foods, and maintain proper oral hygiene, restoring your ability to enjoy everyday activities.
• Enhanced Appearance: By filling in gaps caused by missing teeth, dental bridges enhance the appearance of your smile, improving your self-confidence and overall facial aesthetics.
• Preservation of Facial Structure: Missing teeth can lead to the sagging of facial muscles and a prematurely aged appearance. Dental bridges help maintain the natural shape and structure of your face, ensuring a more youthful look.
• Improved Oral Health: Dental bridges prevent neighboring teeth from shifting into the empty spaces, which can lead to bite problems, gum disease, and further tooth loss. By preserving the alignment of your teeth, dental bridges contribute to better long-term oral health.

Aftercare 

Proper aftercare is essential for the longevity and functionality of your dental bridge. 

Here are some tips to care for your dental bridge:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to cleaning around the dental bridge, ensuring that all surfaces, including the gums and abutment teeth, are thoroughly cleaned.
• Floss Daily: Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between the teeth and around the dental bridge. This helps remove plaque and food particles, keeping your gums healthy and preventing decay.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit Smile Perfection regularly for dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Our dental team will assess the condition of your dental bridge, examine your oral health, and address any concerns or issues to ensure the long-term success of your restoration.
• Avoid Damaging Habits: Refrain from biting down on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or fingernails, as it can damage your dental bridge. Additionally, try to limit your consumption of sticky or chewy foods that may put excessive pressure on the bridge.
• Protect Your Teeth: If you participate in sports or activities that pose a risk of dental injury, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and dental bridge from potential damage.

By following these aftercare guidelines and maintaining regular dental visits, you can prolong the lifespan of your dental bridge and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

At Smile Perfection, we are committed to providing exceptional dental bridge services in Pretoria. 

Our experienced dental team utilizes the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the highest level of care and results. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards restoring your smile and oral health.