A General Overview of Dental Bridges
Dentistry involves a lot of things. A dentist can help you with gum diseases, broken teeth, dental implants, and dental bridges. In this article, we will discuss more about dental bridges so you can know exactly what you are getting into might you decide to choose a dental bridge.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a dental tool used to bridge a gap caused by a missing tooth or teeth. The bridge is mostly made of more than two dental crowns. They are made of different materials. The most common ones are gold, porcelain, and alloy. A dental bridge is supported by a person’s natural teeth. Implants can work if one doesn’t have natural teeth.
Uses of Dental Bridges
We all want beautiful smiles but it is not always that simple. If you are missing a tooth or two, you will most likely not be comfortable with your smile. Luckily, a dental bridge can help you with that.
A dental bridge can also help you chew more comfortably. Chewing is always hard when you are missing a tooth. So if you have any of the following conditions, a dental bridge can be of help.
- Your tooth was eaten by decay and it fell off or your dentist had to remove it.
- If you got involved in an accident and your tooth was damaged beyond repair.
- If you are struggling with an infection that is too deep that a root canal can’t help it.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are four types of dental bridges. You can visit our clinic if you are looking for a dentist in Dixon, IL to help you with any. The four types of dental bridges are:
Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional bridges are the most common option in dental clinics. They normally use abutments that anchors the real tooth with a fake one. You can choose fixed traditional bridges or removable ones.
Maryland Bridges
Considered as a perfect alternative for traditional bridges, these bridges are less invasive and more conservative. They are normally anchored with porcelain or metal and then attached to the back of your teeth on each side of the gaps. They are very good at maintaining healthy teeth but they are not as secure as traditional ones.
Cantilever Bridges
Many prefer these bridges since they just need only one crown for support. This means even a person remaining with a single tooth can use the bridges. The whole procedure of placing them is also easier and less intense. Unfortunately, the risk of jaw and tooth damage is higher because only one tooth works as a lever.
Implant-supported Bridges
These are considered the most secure bridges. They are very effective and they last for a long time. However, they are more expensive than other options. If you can afford this option, go for it.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
- Lightweight and small which makes them comfortable to chew with.
- They are easier to get used compared to the other options.
- Dental bridges play a big role in maintaining the good shape of your mouth.
- Once dental bridges are placed, they help maintain the original position of your natural teeth.
- You don’t need to keep on visiting the dentist near you for the procedure. It only requires a maximum of three visits.
- If properly maintained, they can last for a very long time.
The Lifespan of Dental Bridges
If you take good care of your bridges, they will last for even more than 10 years. The biggest cause of problems on dental bridges is decay. If food remains are not properly cleaned, they cause decay which weakens both the natural and fake teeth.
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily can help you avoid that. Also, ensure to visit your dentist for professional cleanings at least once every six months. Eating a diet full of fruits, fiber and vegetables and avoiding meat can also be of help.
Exceptional Dentistry
If you are looking for an exceptional dentist to help you with your situation, this is the place to be. We have experienced doctors who have been in the industry for a long time. We have more than 35 years of combined experience. Our technology is advanced and you can count on us even with emergencies. Get in contact with us to book an appointment now.