Missing something like a tooth? We understand how this can affect how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. The good news? Dental bridges in Oakland, California, can replace missing teeth and restore your confidence, smile, and life. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back. Book an appointment with Dr. Kenneth L. Childers and his team to explore the benefits of top-tier dental bridges.
How does a dental bridge replace missing teeth?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that replaces one or a few teeth in a row. It consists of artificial teeth (pontic) anchored to the adjacent natural teeth (abutments). Dental crowns secure most bridges for added stability. Unlike a traditional denture, a bridge cannot be removed, except during routine maintenance by a dentist.
A dental bridge fills the toothless gap to restore oral functionality and aesthetics. It also prevents the nearby teeth from shifting, safeguarding your bite alignment.
What can I expect from the bridge procedure?
Getting dental bridges in Oakland involves several steps, but we’ve refined the process to maximize your comfort and satisfaction. Here’s how your procedure unfolds:
- Initial consultation: Dr. Childers will examine your oral health and discuss your goals to assess your eligibility for dental bridges.
- Teeth preparation: We’ll prepare the support teeth (abutments) to receive the dental crowns. This involves reshaping your teeth by removing enamel from all sides.
- Impressions: We’ll take impressions of your teeth to create a blueprint for fabricating a custom bridge. Creating your bridge may take a few weeks. In the meantime, we’ll cover the prepped teeth with provisional restorations.
- Bridge placement: Once your bridge is ready, you’ll visit our Oakland office for placement. Our dentist will inspect your bridge and make a few adjustments to ensure we achieve an optimal fit. The final step is to cement the bridge to provide stability when eating and speaking.
It’s normal for a dental bridge to feel slightly different at first. Your mouth needs a few days to adjust. Once it does, the bridge will blend in and feel like a natural part of your smile.
Can I combine dental bridges with implants?
Conventional dental bridges are secure, but pairing them with dental implants can take your restoration to the next level. Instead of relying on neighboring teeth for support, an implant-supported bridge is anchored directly into the jawbone with titanium posts.
This added stability means your bridge feels more natural, functions more like real teeth, and doesn’t put extra strain on healthy teeth. It also helps preserve your jawbone by stimulating it like natural teeth. The result is a longer-lasting, stronger, and more comfortable solution for multiple missing teeth.
Are dental bridges worth it?
For many, dental bridges are more than a tooth replacement. From comfortable bites to confident selfies, here are the reasons why dental bridges in Oakland, CA, are worth it:
- Natural aesthetics: We create your bridges with life-like materials, providing a seamless appearance. Unless you say something, no one will realize you have replacement teeth.
- Improved chewing function: Bridges restore your chewing power, allowing you to enjoy a wider selection of foods.
- Better speaking ability: Missing a few teeth at the front can distort how you pronounce certain words. Dental bridges in Oakland, CA, fill gaps in the mouth to restore your natural speaking ability.
- Prevent premature dental wear: Dental bridges distribute chewing forces evenly, protecting the remaining teeth from uneven wear.
- Durability and convenient upkeep: They can last 6-10 years or more with good upkeep. Patients are also pleased to discover that maintaining a bridge doesn’t require special maintenance. Brush and floss them like your natural teeth.
- Confidence boost: Without unsightly gaps in your mouth, you can enjoy everyday activities without feeling insecure about your smile. Speak confidently, laugh loudly, and interact without holding back.
- Prevent teeth shifting: Bridges fill gaps to prevent your teeth from shifting, preserving optimal alignment.
Do you need a dental bridge in Oakland or the nearby locations? We’ve helped thousands of patients who once believed they had no options left. Many have been moved to tears when they saw their new smile in the mirror after years of hiding it. Visit us and experience the difference!
Do you need dental bridges near Oakland, California?
KENNETH L. CHILDERS, DDS
Kenneth L. Childers, DDS, is a highly experienced and dedicated dental professional, serving Piedmont and Oakland for over 20 years. A graduate of St. Louis University Dental School, Dr. Childers is a member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. He has held prestigious positions, such as Past President of the Alameda County Dental Society and the Montclair Business Association. Dr. Childers began his journey at the College of the Desert, where he discovered his passion for science. His extensive expertise, commitment to patient care, and community involvement make him a dentist you can trust for your care.
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