A tooth lost through decay, trauma, or possibly from gum disease destroys much of one’s smile, chewing ability, and selfscar interplay. Beyond the visible gap created, in the environs, an absent tooth sets the grounds for numerous other issues: teeth may start moving out of place; bite problems crop up; and, lastly, bone loss in the jaw is observed.
However, it is good news that modern dentistry now erases the existence of a missing tooth, one solution most dependable is a dental bridge. Yet, how can a person identify if a dental bridge is the very solution for him or her?
What Is a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges are custom-made tooth-replacement prosthetics for missing teeth. Typically, this means one or more pontics suspended between two crowns, which in turn fit over the adjacent teeth adjacent to the gap. These supporting adjacent teeth are called abutment teeth. Once cemented, a bridge offers a sturdy, permanent solution that feels and looks like your own teeth.
There are a few principal types of dental bridges:
Traditional Bridges: These are the most common, with crowns placed on the abutment teeth on both sides of the gap.
Cantilever Bridges: When there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth, the pontic is supported by crowns on just one side.
Maryland Bonded Bridges (Resin-Bonded Bridges): With this form of bridge, a metal or porcelain framework is bonded to the backs of adjacent teeth instead of requiring full crowns- it’s more conservative but usually not as strong.
Why Get a Dental Bridge?
Getting rid of a missing tooth is more than just a cosmetic problem:
Restores Your Smile: Bridging the ugly gap will reinstate the natural look of a smile and boost self-confidence.
Better Chewing and Talking: A bridge comes in when there is difficulty in chewing certain foods and talking due to missing teeth.
Maintains Facial Structure: Teeth are instrumental in maintaining facial formation. Replacing missing teeth helps to counteract the development of facial deformities due to bone loss.
Prevents Teeth Shifting: Teeth adjacent to a missing tooth tend to drift into the void. This disrupts one’s bite, forms new gaps, and makes teeth harder to clean and thereby creates a risk for decay and gum disease. A bridge prevents this by keeping these teeth in shape.
Distribute Forces of the Bite: The bridge ensures proper distribution of forces while biting so that it does not put excessive pressure on any of the remaining natural teeth.
Step by Step Process of Getting a Dental Bridge
In general, the above-mentioned steps take at least two visits to the dental office:
Preparation: During the very first visit, the teeth on either side of the gap, called the abutment teeth, will be prepared. This step involves reshaping these teeth to allow space for the crown to be fitted over them. Impressions of the teeth will then be taken to create a model from which the bridge will be custom-made to ensure it fits correctly and matches the color of your natural teeth. A temporary bridge may be fitted to cover the prepared abutments to protect them while your permanent bridge is being made in a dental laboratory.
Fitting: During the second appointment, your temporary bridge is removed, and the permanent bridge can then be fitted, adjusted for comfort and correct bite. Once both you and your dentist appreciate that the fit and appearance are satisfactory, the bridge will be cemented into place permanently.
Is a Dental Bridge Ideal for You?
Even though dental bridges are the ideal choice for many, there are other options too, and whether they are suitable for you totally depends on your circumstances. Some factors that a dentist will take into consideration:
The condition of your abutment teeth: They need to be strong and healthy to bear the bridge.
Your oral hygiene habits: Good oral hygiene is a prerequisite for the life of the bridge since the formation of tooth decay around the abutment teeth could lead to the failure of the entire restoration.
Bone density: Though necessary less than implants, you need enough bone to support your adjacent teeth.
The general condition of your oral health: Situations like aggressive periodontal disease need to be taken care of before a bridge can be installed.
Your dentist will review all possible options with you so that you can make a conscientious decision based on your needs and oral health status; they will also include implant dentistry (which substitutes for the root of the tooth) as well as partial dentures.
Dental Bridge Maintenance
If properly maintained, a dental bridge can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. To care for one, one should:
Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice every day, floss once every day, especially flossing under the pontic and around the abutment crowns with a floss threader or a type of floss designed for bridges.
Routine Dental Evaluations: Regularly get examined and cleaned at the dentist. Such appointments allow the dentist to evaluate the integrity of the bridge and assess the health of the abutment teeth and gums.
Healthy Diet: Stay away from foods that would potentially cause damage to the bridge or its supporting teeth either by being too hard or sticky.
If you have a missing tooth or are having any form of interference with biting or smiling because of the presence of an unattractive gap, then now is a good time to explore getting a dental bridge. The best way to start would be with a consultation with a dentist.
Locals wanting expert advice and quality restorative dental care should contact dentists Oshawa for options and to find the most suitable way to restore their smiles.
