Not Just About Cosmetics…

Replacing a tooth is not merely for cosmetic reasons. Your tooth performs a function. It breaks up your food into tiny pieces so it is easier to swallow. As you are chewing, your saliva helps soften and break down the food too. Losing even a single tooth can cause discomfort and inconvenience when trying to eat. That’s why replacing a tooth is not just about cosmetics, it is also about function.

The Purpose Of Teeth

We all know that we rely on our teeth for chewing, but teeth also rely on one another to stay in position. If one tooth is lost or pulled, there is nothing in that space to hold the other teeth in place. The remaining teeth will shift and move, possibly leading to a misaligned bite which in turn can lead to other dental problems.

The Dental Bridge

The dental bridge is an easy, non-invasive dental treatment used to replace missing teeth. The fixed bridge consists of two hollow crowns on each side of a prosthetic tooth or teeth. The procedure for a fixed bridge is:

1. Your mouth is numbed where the bridge will be.
2. The adjacent teeth are prepared by shaving them down to accommodate dental crowns.
3. After the teeth are prepared the dentist will take a mold of the area using dental putty.
4. The mold is sent to the lab where the dental bridge is fabricated.
5. A temporary bridge is placed.
6. When the permanent bridge is ready it will be checked for fit, comfort, and esthetics.
7. The dentist will permanently bond the bridge by using dental cement on the prepared teeth and then slipping the crowns over the teeth positioning the bridge in place.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.