What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthetic created to cover an area of one or more missing teeth by physically joining the space between existing teeth. You may find that this particular treatment option fits well with your longer-term oral health goals. It not only restores the overall appearance of your smile, but it greatly improves your very ability to chew and speak with total confidence. In dental bridges, missing teeth get replaced via a false tooth, held firmly by crowns cemented onto teeth on each side of the space.
When you need to consider a dental bridge, your dental team will begin with a thorough evaluation in order to determine whether you are indeed a good candidate. The review often starts with dental molds and xrays. These diagnostic tools allow your dentist to examine the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. The support structures need to be strong enough for holding the bridge quite securely.
The dental bridge process usually involves multiple visits. The very first step is preparing all of the abutment teeth by carefully removing only a small amount of enamel. The crowns that will eventually hold the bridge firmly in its place need room to fit properly with your surrounding teeth. Next your dentist will take precise impressions of your teeth. These molds function as a guide for the lab, in which experts create your individualized bridge. While awaiting for your permanent bridge, your abutment teeth might get temporary restorations lke crowns for protection. After the bridge is ready, your dentist will make sure it fits well and aligns with your bite before cementing it for good.
Depending on where you need the tooth replacement in your mouth, the dentist may recommend one type of bridge over another as there are a number of options to consider. Each bridge will involve a pontic, or the false tooth, that's attached to a dental crown covering the rooth on the side of the gap. Cantilever dental bridges are used if only a single abutment tooth exists near the space, but dentists often avoid these bridges to prevent damage to the tooth that is anchoring the bridge. Maryland bridges, also known as resin-bonded bridges, use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth, thereby making them a more conservative option. The dentist will suggest the best treatment option for your specifc needs based on your requirements, the situation of the absent tooth, as well as the state of the encircling teeth.
The several different benefits of any dental bridge can extend well beyond only simply filling such a gap. Using such a bridge for fixing a dental arch substantially helps maintain correct face shape and preventing other teeth's movements. In addition, a dental bridge can help in distributing forces of chewing evenly and lowering the chance of further dental problems in the future. For a majority of the people, dental bridges offer a reliable as well as cost-effective solution in comparison to other restorative options such as dental implants. However, the total efficacy of bridges greatly hinges on the abutment teeth's health and strength; thus, consistent oral care and regular dental appointments are vital aspects of the treatment strategy.
If you have more questions about dental bridges or how they could work as a part of your treatment plan to achieve better dental health, make an appointment with the dentist to see if dental bridges can help you.