Our Implant Solutions in Pembroke Pines, FL
Life with missing teeth can be devastating. You refuse to appear at social events or hesitate to smile because you feel like a part of you is missing. At Sweet Hart Dental, we understand how our patients feel when they have a gap between their teeth and we aim to create a smile you’ll be proud to show off.
With our implant solutions, we can replace anywhere from one tooth to an entire arch of missing teeth so you don’t have to struggle through another day without a complete smile.
Preparation for Restorations
Prior to receiving a dental implant or a bridge, we’ll take the time to examine every detail to ensure your procedure has the best possible outcome. With our technology, we can capture 3D images quickly and comfortably so our procedures are more efficient and more precise. This means less recovery time and less time spent in the treatment chair.
Single and Multiple Tooth Bridges
A dental bridge fills the gap of missing teeth by placing a false tooth between two anchored teeth, called abutments, to complete your smile. The process of getting a bridge is simple and pain-free. Dr. Hart will apply a local anesthetic and continue to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the treatment.
- Dr. Hart will prepare two or more teeth on either side of the gap to be fitted for crowns. This consists of shaving the enamel on the surrounding teeth to make room for the new crowns. These teeth will serve as anchor teeth, or abutments, for the bridge to hold it in place.
- Impressions will be made of your teeth and Dr. Hart will make a temporary bridge for you to wear in the meantime.
- During your next visit, your temporary restoration will be removed and you’ll receive your new permanent bridge.
- If it’s necessary, Dr. Hart will make any last adjustments to ensure you have a perfect fit.
- Your bridge will be cemented onto the abutments for a secure fit.
Replacing a Full Arch
If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth, you can complete your smile with a combination of dental implants and dentures. Dental implants are known for their longevity and their natural look and feel. If cared for properly, they can last a lifetime.
The overall dental implant process is typically 6 months and requires two surgeries. During the first surgery, dental implants are affixed to your jawbone. Through a process called osseointegration, your bone will continue to grow and build a strong foundation with your implant.
The healing process usually takes 4 to 6 months to complete. In the meantime, you’ll wear a temporary restoration such as dentures. After the healing process is complete, you’ll have your second minor surgery where abutments will be attached to the implants. After about two weeks of healing, your final restoration will be placed and your new smile will be complete.
Complete Your Smile at Sweet Hart Dental
At Sweet Hart Dental, we can help you on your road to confidence by restoring your smile. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hart by calling (954) 437-9288 and she can provide you with the information necessary to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
After a bridge procedure, it may take some getting used to before you feel fully adjusted to the new restoration. For lasting results, you’ll want to brush twice a day, floss daily, and rinse between meals. One of our team members will be sure to show you the proper techniques on how to complete your oral hygiene routine with your new appliance.
You’ll want to schedule biannual checkups and professional cleanings at Sweet Hart Dental to ensure your oral health and your bridge are in their best shape. It’s important to note that food and bacteria tend to build up around the bridge and your natural teeth under the abutments can still become decayed.
It’s vital to take extra care when cleaning around your bridge to ensure this doesn’t happen because if you need a filling or a root canal, you’ll need to have the bridge removed prior to the treatment.
With proper care, dental bridges can last 15 years or longer. We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals. In addition to maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine, you’ll want to schedule checkups and professional cleanings twice a year at Sweet Hard Dental.
A few ways to increase the longevity your bridge include:
- Avoid hard food and candy
- Avoid gum and other chewy foods
- Floss natural teeth and under the bridge
- Use oral care products containing fluoride
If you damage, break, or lose your bridge, it’s important to contact our office right away by calling (954) 437-9288. Don’t try to fix it yourself, as this typically causes more problems.
Insurance may cover a portion of the expenses because it’s considered restorative in nature. However, it also has aesthetic benefits, and therefore a lot of insurance companies classify it as a cosmetic procedure. We recommend contacting your insurance company prior to your appointment to learn more about your specific coverage.
At first, it may take a little getting used to your bridge, but it will make it easier to eat and speak. For the first few days after the procedure, you’ll want to eat soft foods and cut them up into smaller bites. It’s normal to have problems with pronunciation after receiving a new appliance, however after you’ve adjusted to it, you’ll be better off.
After about two weeks, you should be accustomed to the new appliance. If it takes much longer than that, you’ll want to contact Dr. Hart by calling (954) 437-9288. She may want to adjust your appliance for a better fit.