Prosthodontics

Nobody likes to be missing a tooth. In fact, the very idea of an unfortunate mishap leading to a knocked-out tooth is plenty visual to incite even the hardest soul to cringe. But the reality it, it happens. At Cute Smile Dentistry we also offer bridging procedures to replace a missing tooth and restore the original appearance of your teeth, prior to the accident. Not only for aesthetic purposes, but bridge procedures are also crucial preventative measures for extensive complications that can occur if a gap is left untreated!

WHY REPLACE A MISSING TOOTH?

When lower back teeth are missing, the teeth behind the space tip inwards and forwards. The teeth on top can shift and move (extrude) into the space. Failure to replace missing teeth results in much larger problems occurring over time requiring more extensive treatment.

People with crooked teeth are more susceptible to gum disease. They lose bone and tissue around the roots of the teeth. The bone in the area of the missing teeth can shrink away and over time can result in facial collapse. One’s ability to chew can be affected and chewing forces are transferred to the other teeth resulting in compromised support, increased wear and deterioration. Replacing missing teeth immediately after they are lost can provide many benefits including reduced long term costs and improved overall health.

BRIDGE PROCEDURE

A bridge is one of the treatment options to replace a missing tooth. A tooth is usually required on either side of the space upon which the bridge is supported. Fabrication of a bridge generally requires two appointments.

At the first appointment, the supporting teeth are altered for the bridge and a mold is made. A temporary plastic bridge is made at this appointment, which is cemented in place until the final bridge is ready. The bridge is made by a dental technician using the mold. At the second appointment, the bridge is fitted into place. The color of the bridge, the shape and the bite are checked. The see-through image shows the bridge fits over the supporting teeth.

When both you and your dentist are pleased with the fit, color, shape and bite, the bridge is cemented into place. This type of restoration generally provides an esthetic and functional result.

bridge-procedure

What Our Patients Are Saying

Dr. Akraa and the team at Cute Smile Dentistry value customer care.
They want patients to feel valued and empowered.

“Excellent front & back office. Efficient, kind, knowledgeable, affordable first class care. Recently visited based on a personal & professional reference. This doctor deserves your business.”
Kip K. | Woodland Hills
“Love this place, and service!! always treat you like a family member, hygiene is the key word for this dental office and what make me stay here for more than 10 years!! Thank you cute dental!!!”
Gloria F. | Los Angeles
“I have been a patient for almost 10 years and love Dr. Akraa. She is loving, caring and very gentle. I have been bringing my daughter to see her for at least 5 years and my daughter is so relaxed with Dr. Akraa because Dr. treats her with gentle loving care.”
Kathy H.