Dental bridges have been used for centuries (maybe even millennia) as a way to replace lost and missing teeth. In that time the materials used as teeth replacements have changed.
Everything from animal bones, the teeth of the deceased, ivory, seashells, and stones have been used. In modern dentistry, we use ceramics that look like natural teeth and are strong enough to provide the function of real teeth.
That’s why we offer zirconium dental bridges for our patients at New Albany Implants. Our dentist office is located in New Albany, IN, but we have had patients from all over the United States.
Make your appointment today if you would like to see what a zirconium bridge could do for your smile. Call (812) 945-7645 or contact us online to schedule a consultation at our office.
The Function Of A Dental Bridge
Before we explain why you may want a zirconium bridge, it’s worth taking a moment to explain the primary functions of a dental bridge.
For a patient who is missing one tooth, we would recommend a dental implant and a dental crown. For a patient who is missing a row of teeth, we would recommend implant-supported dentures.
And for a patient who is missing a few teeth, we would recommend a dental bridge placed on a few dental Implants.
Dental bridges are formed by fusing two or more dental crowns together. This is first and foremost a restorative service. By getting a dental bridge, you will be able to continue biting and chewing your food just like you did before you lost your teeth.
However, modern dental bridges also have cosmetic benefits. Ceramics can be made that look virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Last but not least, getting a dental bridge may help to protect the teeth that you still have. Teeth can and do move. Part of the reason we don’t notice their movement is because our teeth support one another.
If some of your teeth are removed, then the nearby teeth may begin to drift. This can affect your bite and your smile, and it can increase the risk of losing more teeth. By getting a dental bridge, you will be providing support that helps to keep your natural teeth where they should be.
When you leave New Albany Implants with a dental bridge, you can feel confident in your smile and your ability to eat what you want. Call (812) 945-7645 if you are ready to make an appointment.
Why Should You Get A Zirconium Dental Bridge?
We noted before that dental bridges have been created in a lot of ways with a lot of materials throughout human history. Today, dental bridges are still made with a variety of materials.
So why should you get a zirconium dental bridge?
Zirconium is a durable material. With proper care, your zirconium bridge can stand up to the day-to-day rigors of replacing a tooth for decades. You will know that you are getting something with lasting value if you get a zirconium bridge.
From a visibility standpoint, you also will have replacement teeth that fit in with the rest of your smile. This can help you feel more confident that your bridge won’t be a distraction in social or professional situations.
What Are Alternatives To A Zirconium Dental Bridge?
One option is a porcelain-fused-to-metal bridge. With this kind of bridge, the metal base may be visible. The thin black band can make it obvious which of your “teeth” really aren’t.
This is typically used for a traditional bridge. This is made by reducing the size of two of your teeth. These are the teeth closest to the gap in your smile.
A small drill is used to shape those teeth into abutments. These abutments will provide the support for the bridge.
Zirconium offers advantages if you want a traditional bridge as well. For starters, the zirconium bridge will blend it better with the rest of your smile.
For patients who have metal allergies, a porcelain-fused-to-metal bridge can create new problems.
An all-zirconium bridge will prevent that kind of allergic reactions. This makes a traditional zirconium bridge a good option for patients who can’t get titanium dental implants, too.
Another advantage with zirconium is we can remove less enamel from your abutment teeth during your preparation. That means we will preserve more of your healthy teeth.
Which Dental Bridge Is Right For You?
The best way to find out is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Receveur or Dr. Frederick at New Albany Implants.
Contact us online or call (812) 945-7645 today to schedule your appointment.