Losing one or more teeth can make it difficult to eat, talk, and smile with confidence. Fortunately, dental bridges are a great solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring not only the function of your mouth but also the appearance of your smile.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a restoration that spans the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The bridge is anchored to the existing teeth on either side of the gap, which are called abutment teeth. The missing tooth or teeth are replaced with artificial teeth, called pontics, that are cemented or screwed onto the abutment teeth to create a permanent restoration.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges, including traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges. Traditional bridges are the most common and consist of a pontic or pontics attached to two dental crowns that fit over the abutment teeth. Implant-supported bridges, on the other hand, are anchored to dental implants that have been surgically placed into the jawbone.
The type of bridge that is right for you will depend on a variety of factors, such as the location of the missing teeth, the health of your remaining teeth, and your overall oral health.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer a number of benefits, including:
- Restoration of function – Bridges allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence by filling in the gaps where teeth are missing.
- Protection of remaining teeth – Bridges can prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position and damaging the bite.
- Improved appearance – Bridges can improve the appearance of your smile, making it fuller and more natural-looking.
- Affordable – Bridges are an affordable option for replacing missing teeth, especially when compared to dental implants.
- Easy to maintain – Bridges are easy to care for, requiring only regular brushing and flossing along with routine dental checkups.
Tooth-Supported Bridges: A Closer Look
Tooth-supported bridges are a popular option for replacing one or more missing teeth. These bridges are typically made from porcelain or ceramic, which can be color-matched to your existing teeth for a natural-looking restoration.
The process of getting a tooth-supported bridge typically involves two appointments. During the first appointment, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the dental crowns. An impression is then taken of the teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge is custom made.
At the second appointment, the bridge is cemented onto the abutment teeth using a special dental cement. The dentist will check to make sure the bridge fits properly and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it permanently in place.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
Caring for your dental bridge is similar to caring for your natural teeth. It is important to brush twice a day and floss daily to remove any food particles and plaque buildup. Regular dental checkups are also important to ensure that the bridge is functioning properly and to detect any potential issues before they become serious.
If you have one or more missing teeth and are interested in learning more about tooth-supported bridges or other restorative dentistry options, contact your dentist today. They can help you determine the best course of treatment to meet your unique needs and restore your smile to its natural beauty.