Why Should You Consider Getting Dental Bridges?

Are you among the 120 million Americans with one or more missing teeth? Then you may want to consider dental bridges for restoration. Dental bridges are a set of fixed artificial teeth that bridges the gap between your lost teeth and your existing teeth. The fake teeth used in the bridges are known as pontics. Pontics are anchored to the abutment, the teeth bordering the tooth gap. At Kennedy North Dentistry getting a dental bridge will require at least two dental appointments.

During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare your natural teeth supporting the bridge on both sides. They will also take impressions of those teeth and the dental bridge. A temporary bridge is also fixed on the first appointment. It is during the second appointment that the permanent bridge is placed. However, you may be required to make additional visits for adjustments as you get used to your new bridges.

Reasons Why You Should Consider Dental Bridges

Dental makes an effective solution if you have missing teeth. Tooth gaps can make eating and talking more difficult. Here are some reasons to get a dental bridge front or back teeth.

• They Prevent Shifting. When you have a tooth gap, the neighboring teeth could easily shift into the void the missing tooth has left. Dental bridges prevent adjacent teeth from moving or going out of their position.
• Dental bridges Improve Chewing. When you have fewer teeth, your ability to chew is impaired. Dental bridges will help you resume the normalcy of chewing your favorite daily diet.
• They will Improve your Appearance. Missing teeth, especially the front ones, can affect your smile’s attractiveness. Dental bridges will improve your appearance by giving you a brighter smile.

Types of Dental Bridges

The following are different types of dental bridges in Caledon, ON:

Traditional Fixed Bridges

Traditional bridges have a false tooth that is held in place by crowns that have been cemented on the abutment teeth. They are the common type of dental bridge. Traditional bridges can be made of ceramic or porcelain to metal fused materials.

Cantilever Bridge

Unlike traditional bridges, cantilever bridges are held in place by a dental crown cemented to one abutment tooth. Therefore, a cantilever dental bridge needs only a single natural tooth or dental implant. However, this type of bridge is not very common and is not recommended for the back teeth. This is because too much force on them can damage other teeth.

Maryland Dental Bridge

Like traditional dental bridges, Maryland bridges require two natural teeth to support them. However, unlike conventional bridges, which use crowns on the abutment teeth, Maryland bridges use a metal or porcelain framework. Maryland bridges are only used if you have natural teeth on each side of the tooth gap.

Implant-Supported Dental Bridge

As the name suggests, implants-supported bridges use dental implants. One dental implant will be surgically placed on every tooth gap. The implants will hold the tooth bridge in place. If it is impossible for the dental implant to be positioned, the bridge will have a pontic suspended on two implant-supported crowns.

An implant-supported dental bridge is considered the most stable and durable dental bridge. However, it normally requires two surgical procedures. The first is embedding the implants into the jaw bone, and the second involves placing the bridge. It will take several months to have the whole procedure done.

Caring For Dental Bridges

Despite dental bridges being “permanent,” they don’t last forever. An average dental bridge has a duration of about five to seven years. However, with proper care, some bridges can last for a decade. The following are ways you can lengthen the duration of your dental bridges.

• Brushing Twice Daily. Plaque and tartar do not take long before accumulating on your teeth and along the gumline. Brushing twice daily will keep the bacteria away using a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help you maintain healthy levels in your mouth.
• Flossing At Least Once a Day. The adjacent natural teeth support dental bridges. If compromised, you may lose your restoration. Therefore, it is important to clean the natural teeth at least once daily. This reduces the occurrence of tooth decay and gum disease.
• Cleaning Below the Bridge. Cleaning underneath the bridges has to be done regularly. This can be done using floss threaders, interproximal brushes, or dental picks. They will be able to remove food particles and debris between your brides and gums once you have finished brushing.
• Routine Dental Checkups. Dental checkups and cleaning are essential for dental bridges and other restorations. Most individuals benefit from a twice-a-year dental visit. Unfortunately, we recommend frequent dental appointments if you are susceptible to decay or gum diseases.