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Dental Bridges Specialist

Theodore Burnett, DDS -  - General & Cosmetic Dentist

Los Angeles Dental Arts

Theodore Burnett, DDS

General & Cosmetic Dentist located in Westchester, Los Angeles, CA

If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge is one of the best ways to fill the gap without disrupting the overall function of your mouth. And here’s the good news: At Los Angeles Dental Arts in Los Angeles, Theodore Burnett, DDS, can create your bridge in just one visit. To learn more about how you can walk out of the dentist’s office with a full set of teeth, call or book an appointment online.

Dental Bridges Q&A

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge spans the gap that missing teeth create and attaches to your natural teeth on either side. The bridge has a pontic, or prosthetic tooth, which is seamlessly anchored to your existing teeth for proper fit and alignment.

What are the different types of dental bridges?

There are four types of bridges, and the location of your missing tooth largely governs which option is best.

Traditional dental bridge

A traditional dental bridge is the most commonly used bridge, which relies on support from your natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

With a traditional bridge, Dr. Burnett files the enamel off your anchor teeth and equips them with a crown. He then attaches the bridge with the artificial tooth to these crowns, which hold your replacement tooth in place.

Cantilever bridge

The cantilever bridge works the same way as a traditional bridge, except Dr. Burnett only attaches the artificial tooth to one side when natural teeth aren’t available on both sides.

Maryland bridge

This type of bridge doesn’t rely on crowned teeth on either side of the missing tooth. Instead, Dr. Burnett uses a metal or porcelain framework to attach the replacement tooth to your existing teeth.

Implant-supported bridge

Dr. Burnett turns to an implant-supported bridge when you’re missing more than one tooth. With this method, Dr. Burnett places implants into your jawline where your teeth are missing and attaches the bridge to the implants.

How quickly can I get a bridge?

Often, Dr. Burnett can build bridges in one visit, thanks to the cutting-edge technology of the CEREC® system. This specialized equipment allows Dr. Burnett to create the bridge in his in-office lab.

First, Dr. Burnett takes precise 3D images with the CEREC Omnicam. Special software then analyzes the images and comes up with optimal restoration procedures. Once you and Dr. Burnett settle on the best option, the CEREC grinding and milling unit goes to work to create your bridge.

When the bridge is finished, Dr. Burnett places the bridge in your mouth and sinters and glazes it to ensure the bridge fits in with your natural teeth. The final step? You walk out with a winning smile that’s natural looking, as well as durable.

To learn more about same-day bridges, call Los Angeles Dental Arts or book an appointment online.