Tooth architect spans the gaps in your smile with dental bridges
Dental decay and gum disease are the leading causes of tooth loss. At Tooth Architect Dental Care, we work closely with patients in Sandy Springs and from across the north Atlanta area to prevent or stop these conditions from causing permanent damage to the teeth. As a true practitioner of conservative or minimalist dentistry. Dr. Shiva Talebi knows that, in many instances, the need for dental bridges and other forms of replacement teeth are not necessary. We can preserve even severely damaged teeth with proactive care and appropriate therapies.
Of course, we are also sensitive to the fact that accidents can arise. New systemic challenges can develop that threaten the teeth. Sometimes, removing the tooth is the best option to restore healthy function and prevent complications that affect your overall health and well-being.
Bridging the gap
Bridges represent “fixed” (not removable) methods to replace natural teeth. Unlike other dental prosthetics, such as dentures, the bridge is cemented or secured to the remaining teeth. Or, with implant-supported bridges, the prosthetic tooth is attached to an artificial “root” (implant) that is stabilized in the jaw. Bridges may replace one tooth or a few missing or failing teeth.
With most standard traditional dental bridges, two crowns are needed to “anchor” the “pontic” or replacement tooth. The teeth closest to the pontic or neighbors to the lost or failing tooth are crowned. To accept the crown, these anchor or “abutment” teeth must be reduced in size. This reduction in tooth structure is essential to ensure the crown properly fits on top of the tooth. As part of a bridge, crowns are also necessary to ensure that the abutments remain strong enough to hold up and support the pontic properly.
The bridge is made from impressions and based on information collected by Dr. Talebi. A temporary is applied to protect and restore the teeth while the bridge is being made. Once the permanent bridge is ready, the temporary is removed. After selecting the best dental cement from multiple options tested, Dr. Talebi cements the bridge using sophisticated and high-quality cement. It is important to note that many patients mistake this dental cement for super glue. The neighboring abutments are fused together with at least two crowns and one pontic, forming a single unit.
We strive to maintain one-on-one relationships with our patients. So, they can then get the most out of their restorations and retain their healthiest, happiest selves. In turn, we can advise on ways to ensure the bridge is properly cleaned. Failure to remove food and bacteria from underneath the bridge can shorten its lifespan. We demonstrate good hygiene techniques and recommend suitable oral care products to help.
Of course, for patients concerned about their ability to clean the bridge properly or looking for a more conservative option, we are happy to discuss alternatives like crowns, bridges, and dentures supported by implants. We want to hear from you! Call (404) 666-8066 or simply stop by the office of Tooth Architect Dental Care in Sandy Springs, GA.