Dental bridges are designed to fill in gaps caused by missing teeth. They help to restore a patient’s appearance and self-confidence, as well as prevent healthy teeth from shifting into the gap and causing further health problems.
Dental bridges are anchored in place by two healthy teeth on either side, known as abutment teeth. Ideally, these teeth are free of decay and gum disease.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. It consists of a pontic (false tooth) and crowns that fit over healthy natural teeth on either side of the gap. Traditional dental bridges Smithfield VA are usually made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramic. They can be used to replace one or more missing teeth in a row and are typically more comfortable than partial dentures.
A fixed bridge can last for five to 15 years, but the longevity of your dental bridge depends on its placement and care. Brushing twice a day and flossing, along with regular professional dental cleanings can promote the health of your teeth and gums and help extend the life of your dental bridge.
Traditional bridges require healthy natural teeth on both sides of the gap for support, while cantilever bridges are supported by only one natural tooth next to the gap. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth and make impressions to create the model for your bridge and pontic.
How is a Dental Bridge Made?
A traditional dental bridge consists of an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, that is held in place by dental crowns that are cemented onto the abutment teeth on each side of the gap. While pontics can be made from a variety of materials, dentists typically choose porcelain for their natural-looking appearance and strength.
Dental bridges improve chewing function and restore your ability to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. They also prevent nearby teeth from shifting into the gap caused by missing teeth.
During your first visit for a dental bridge, the abutment teeth are prepared by recontouring them, which involves removing a portion of their enamel to make room for the crowns that will cover them. An impression is then taken of your teeth, which will serve as a model from which your custom bridge and pontic will be made by a lab. A temporary bridge will be made for you to wear in the meantime.
How is a Dental Bridge Placed?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that spans the gap where a missing tooth is located. This treatment is a great option for patients who prefer not to undergo surgery or implants and want a permanent solution.
When you get a dental bridge, your dentist will first give you local anesthesia to ensure that you don’t feel any discomfort during the procedure. They will also reshape the teeth that will serve as anchors for the bridge, which requires them to remove some of their enamel.
They will then take impressions of your mouth to create a model for the artificial tooth or teeth that will make up the bridge. They will then place a temporary bridge until the lab creates your final one.
When you return for your second appointment, they will remove the temporary bridge and place your new, permanent one. They will use dental cement to fix it in place, and you should then be able to eat normally again!
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
There is no one answer to this question as the longevity of a dental bridge depends on various factors. The main factor is the health of the teeth and gums that support the bridge. This includes good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist in Smithfield VA. Avoiding certain foods, such as sticky candies or hard nuts, is also important to protect your dental bridge.
The type of bridge also impacts its lifespan. Cantilever bridges tend to have shorter lifespans than traditional bridges due to increased stress on the abutment teeth.
Most dental professionals agree that dental bridges Smithfield VA can last for several years with proper care. Some dental professionals claim that with good oral hygiene, a dental bridge can even last a lifetime. Dental bridges are an excellent option for replacing missing teeth and can provide a natural-looking, sturdy solution to tooth loss. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with a dental bridge before pursuing this treatment.
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