Basic Facts People Should Know about Dental Bridges
It can be a struggle to deal with missing teeth. Not only can it make you feel self-conscious, but it can also affect your quality of life. Chewing food and speaking can become difficult.
In addition, missing teeth can cause other problems. Teeth support each other, and the remaining teeth can shift out of place when you have missing teeth. It can lead to bite problems and even more tooth loss.
Dental bridges are an excellent treatment for missing teeth. They are strong and durable and can replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, or a combination. If you want to learn more about this dental solution, continue reading this article.
What Is Dental Bridge?
A false tooth, known as a pontic, is fused between two crowns to fill in the space left by a missing tooth. The two crowns holding it in place are attached to your existing teeth, known as abutments.
A dental bridge is usually made from porcelain or ceramic, a popular choice for people who want to restore their smile. Your dentist might offer this as a solution if you have this issue:
- Replace one or more missing teeth
- Restore your smile
- Improve your speech
- Make it easier to chew and eat
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Prevent your remaining teeth from drifting out of position
How It Is Attached
The process of fitting a dental bridge involves replacing a missing tooth with an artificial tooth, which is then bonded to natural teeth in the mouth on either side of the gap. The first step is to prepare the teeth on either side of the opening for the dental bridge. It involves removing a small amount of enamel from the natural teeth so the bridge can be bonded.
Next, an impression of the teeth is taken to create the artificial tooth. Once the artificial tooth is ready, it is bonded using a strong dental adhesive. The final step is to floss and brushes the teeth as usual. Keeping the teeth and gums healthy is necessary to prevent the dental bridge from becoming loose.
What Is Its Lifespan
Dental bridges can last between 5 and 15 years, depending on how well you care for them. Below are a few tips to help you make your dental bridge last:
- Brush and floss regularly. It will help remove plaque and bacteria around your dental bridge and prevent tooth decay.
- See your dentist regularly. Ensure your dental bridge is checked and cleaned at least twice a year.
- Avoid hard foods. Chewing on hard foods can damage your dental bridge. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, and nuts.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can discolor your dental bridge and increase your risk for gum disease.
Conclusion
Dental bridges have many benefits, including the fact that they can help restore your smile, improve your chewing function, and help keep your existing teeth from shifting. Additionally, bridges can be more affordable than implants and can be completed in a shorter time frame. Discuss the benefits of dental bridges with your dentist if you are considering a dental restoration option.
If you have a missing tooth, you should visit Weymouth Dental Arts immediately. As one of the leading dentists in Weymouth, MA, we can restore your smile and instruct you on maintaining it. Schedule an appointment now!