What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is an option to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. It involves using anchor teeth on either side of the gap to hold the replacement teeth together. This provides a chewing surface and restores the function and bite, allowing the patient to comfortably eat their food.
What is the difference between a bridge and a denture?
The main difference between a dental bridge and a denture is that a denture can be removed and is typically taken out at night to allow tissues to breathe, while a dental bridge is a fixed solution that remains in place.
What are the pros and cons of dental bridges?
The pros of a dental bridge include its fixed nature, aesthetic appeal, and the ability to replace missing teeth without removal. The cons involve cutting healthy tooth structure to anchor the bridge and the need for specific cleaning methods underneath the bridge to maintain gum health and the integrity of the anchoring teeth.
What are the different types of dental bridges?
Dental bridges can vary based on the number of teeth involved, ranging from single to multiple teeth replacements. Materials used can include ceramic, which requires less tooth cutting and looks natural, or a metal substructure with porcelain on top for strength.
What are the alternatives to a dental bridge?
Alternatives to a dental bridge include dental implants, which are a common and successful fixed option, and dentures, which are removable. Implants provide comfort and aesthetic appeal, while dentures may feel uncomfortable as they can move around.
What is a removable dental bridge versus a fixed dental bridge?
There is no such thing as a removable dental bridge. The term refers to a fixed dental bridge, which remains cemented in place. In contrast, a removable denture is a plastic piece with teeth that can be taken out, typically at night, to allow tissue recovery.
What is a cantilever dental bridge?
A cantilever dental bridge is used in limited cases where only one anchor tooth is available. It involves having a single anchor tooth supporting the prosthetic tooth, making it a unique solution evaluated by a dentist for suitability.
What are the benefits of a dental bridge?
Dental bridges restore function and aesthetics by allowing patients to chew, smile, and speak confidently. They replace missing teeth without the need for removal and are maintained similarly to natural teeth.
What is the process of getting a dental bridge, and is it painful?
The process of getting a dental bridge involves anesthetizing the area, shaping the anchoring teeth, and placing a temporary bridge. After a week or two, the permanent bridge is fitted. The procedure is not painful, as local anesthesia ensures comfort similar to cavity restoration.
How long does a dental bridge last and how do you take care of it?
A dental bridge can last from 10 to 20 years, with some lasting over 30 years. Proper care involves brushing like natural teeth, using special bridge floss or a water pick to clean underneath, and maintaining gum health around the anchoring teeth.
There are many ways to replace missing teeth. One of the most affordable and effective methods is a dental bridge. This permanent solution fills in the hole left by an absent tooth and is customized to blend in with the rest of your smile so no one will notice the dental restoration. Find out if you’re a good candidate for a minimally invasive dental bridge at Smiles by the Sea in Hampton, NH.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
It’s easy to assume that a molar that needed to be extracted in the very back of your mouth is not a big deal. You may not even be all that troubled by the loss of a more prominent tooth. However, the absence of a tooth and its root system means:
- The jawbone underneath the missing tooth begins to weaken.
- It’s more likely that other teeth will fall out.
- Nearby healthy teeth will shift out of place to cover the gap left by the missing tooth.
- You are more likely to develop a poorly aligned bite.
- Remaining teeth will be unstable.
It may be hard to believe that one missing tooth can cause the deterioration of your oral health, but the problems that develop will be like dominos, with complications coming one after the other until your entire smile is compromised.
Reasons to Choose a Dental Bridge to Replace a Missing Tooth
If you are missing one or several consecutive teeth along the top or bottom arch of your mouth, you are very likely eligible for a dental bridge. This repair is designed to literally bridge the gap left behind by missing teeth.
People are missing teeth for many reasons like accidents, falls, sporting injuries, gum disease, tooth decay, root infections, and more. The cause matters because it is necessary for your mouth to be healthy and healed before a dental restoration can be done. Your Hampton dentist will make sure of this before proceeding with any repairs.
- Safe, conservative solution
- Customized restoration
- Created by dental lab technicians
- Blends in with your other teeth
- High-quality materials
- Long-lasting results
- Skilled, experience restorative dentistry team
The Dental Bridge Process
The dental bridge process requires several steps to complete the dental restoration:
- Consultation: Discuss your situation with your Hampton dentist and allow her to examine your mouth to determine whether you are a qualified candidate for a dental bridge.
- Prep: The natural, healthy teeth on either side of your gap will be used as anchors to hold the dental bridge in place. They will be filed down slightly to make sure the bridge clasps on properly and is held firmly in place with customized porcelain crowns.
- Impressions: Digital impressions – no more messy, uncomfortable dental putty – will be taken so your dentist can get a clear, precise image of your teeth. This serves as a blueprint for the dental lab techs who will be creating the bridge.
- Temporary bridge: All this prep happens before the final bridge is ready so you will be sent home with a temporary bridge while you wait for a few weeks for the final fixed prosthetic to be complete.
- Permanent restoration: When your customized dental bridge is ready, the temporary will be removed and the permanent one will be cemented into place as well as the dental crowns. The result is a complete repair that creates a full smile and eliminates all the holes.
Is a Dental Bridge the Right Solution for You?
Feel good about yourself and how you look. Talk to your dentist, Dr. Harbpinder Shevchenko, at Smiles by the Sea in Hampton, NH, about a dental bridge and other tooth replacement options. There is at least one solution that is right for your dental restoration, so you can have a complete, healthy, strong smile. Contact us to schedule a consultation.