Bridges Specialist

Shorey Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentists & Family Dentists located in Morgan Hill, CA

Having a gap in your smile can impact your speech and ability to bite and chew. At Shorey Dentistry in Morgan Hill, California, Robert Shorey, DDS, and his team use the latest designing and manufacturing technology to create dental bridges that fit your smile perfectly. To learn more about bridges and other tooth replacement alternatives, call Shorey Dentistry or book an appointment online today.

Bridges Q&A

What are bridges?

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth as long as the missing teeth in question are next to each other. A bridge anchors onto the healthy teeth near the gap, often with crowns, to support one or more artificial teeth to fill the gap. 

At Shorey Dentistry, Dr. Shorey and his team design bridges that are both beautiful and functional. They work with the best labs in the country to design and manufacture bridges that last. At the beginning of the process, Dr. Shorey helps you decide which type of bridge is most appropriate for your circumstances. 

The technology used to plan your treatment and design your bridge includes photography, high-tech digital X-rays, and other devices to assess your facial structure. You can preview your results in advance. 

Which type of bridge should I get?

There are four bridge types. After assessing your smile and discussing your personal preferences and needs, Dr. Shorey recommends one of the following:

Traditional bridges

Traditional bridges are the most common. They rely on two healthy abutment teeth (one on each side of the gap) for support. Dr. Shorey prepares these teeth by removing some enamel before creating crowns to attach to them.

Cantilever bridges

Cantilever bridges are a great option if your missing tooth is in the back of your mouth and there is only one healthy tooth next to the gap to support it. Dr. Shorey creates a crown for this tooth to support your cantilever bridge.

Maryland bridges

Maryland bridges don’t rely on crowns for support. Instead, they use a metal or porcelain framework that attaches to the backsides of the teeth on each side of the gap. Like traditional bridges, you must have teeth on both sides of the gap to get a Maryland bridge. 

Implant-supported bridges

Implant-supported bridges don’t anchor onto remaining teeth. Instead, at least two dental implants placed in your jawbone support your bridge. 

What are the benefits of getting a bridge?

A bridge can improve your oral health and your appearance. Here are some benefits:

  • No more gap in your smile
  • Easier biting and chewing
  • Clearer speech
  • Maintenance of your facial shape and structure
  • No drifting or shifting of your other teeth

Dr. Shorey and his team teach you to care for your bridge to extend its longevity. You can expect your bridge to last for 5-15 years with optimal care. 

Book your consultation for a functional and natural-looking dental bridge by phone, or schedule online at Shorey Dentistry today.