Why Dental Bridges Are the Smart Solution for Missing Teeth Recovery
Learn more about dental bridge options.
Losing our teeth as adults isn’t something we want to happen, but it happens. And when it does, taking action with dental restoration can make a big difference. When you don’t, teeth can shift, and you may suddenly find that you can’t chew correctly. Missing teeth can even impact your ability to speak. So, what do you do?
There are several options available to those who have experienced tooth loss, and it is possible to replace missing teeth without implants. The best choice? It all comes down to dental bridges.
What is a dental bridge?
If this is your first experience with adult tooth loss, you might not be aware of your options. Typically, patients choose from one of the following solutions (or a combination thereof):
- Dentures
- Dental bridges
- Tooth implants
But what is a dental bridge exactly? Simply put, a dental bridge is a popular restorative dental treatment that fills the space left by one or more missing teeth with a false tooth, commonly referred to as a pontic, which is held in place by the surrounding teeth. These supporting teeth are usually fitted with crowns, which anchor the bridge and keep it stable. The result is a natural-looking replacement that helps restore both function and appearance.
Four Dental Bridge Options
Not all dental bridges are the same. When you come in for your consultation with your dentist in Mystic, Connecticut, we’ll discuss your options with you. Here are the options that may be discussed.
- Traditional bridges use crowns on the teeth next to the gap to hold the replacement tooth in place
- Cantilever bridges are supported by a crown on just one side of the missing tooth
- Maryland (resin-bonded) bridges rely on a metal or porcelain framework that attaches to the backs of adjacent teeth
- Dental implants secure implant-supported bridges in place, instead of your natural teeth
The bridge we recommend will be based on your current oral health and smile goals.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
While dental implants are often considered the gold standard for tooth replacement, they’re not an option for all patients. The truth is dental implants can be expensive, despite how long they last. Because the cost of a bridge is quite a bit less than dental implants, and because bridges offer a more stable solution than dentures, they’re chosen by a lot of patients.
Here are some of the benefits that you can expect if together, we decide that a dental bridge is best for you and your smile.
- Restores your ability to chew and enjoy your favorite foods
- Helps keep nearby teeth from shifting out of place
- Improves speech by filling gaps that affect how you form words
- Offers a natural look that blends in with your existing teeth
- Provides a more secure fit than removable dentures
- Dental bridges are designed to last five to seven years or more
Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?
If you’re missing teeth and you’re reading this and thinking that a dental bridge is the right choice, the next thing you’re probably wondering is: Am I a candidate for a dental bridge?
In many cases, the answer is yes. Dental bridges work well for patients who have one or more missing teeth with healthy teeth on either side of the gap. These nearby teeth help support the bridge, so they need to be strong enough to handle that role.
You may also be a good fit if your gums are healthy and free from active gum disease. A stable foundation is important for long-term success. If you already have crowns on nearby teeth, a bridge may be an easy next step.
Lifestyle habits matter, too. Good daily brushing and flossing help keep your bridge and surrounding teeth in great shape.
What to Expect During Your Dental Bridge Treatment
So, what does dental bridge treatment look like? It’s actually pretty simple. In most cases, the process takes two visits. During your first appointment, the teeth next to the gap are prepared, and impressions are taken to create your custom bridge. You’ll likely receive a temporary bridge to wear in the meantime. Once your final bridge is ready, you’ll come back in so it can be placed and adjusted for a comfortable fit. After that, you’re free to eat, speak, and smile with ease again.
Schedule a Consultation to See if a Dental Bridge is Right For You
If you’re missing one or more teeth, know that you’re not alone. Tooth loss happens. And though the best way to prevent premature tooth loss is to practice good oral hygiene at home and visit your dentist for a professional dental cleaning every six months, we can help if tooth loss does happen.
So, don’t let missing teeth keep you from smiling for long. A dental bridge may be the perfect choice for you. To discuss your options and get started, schedule your restorative dentistry consultation today.
