Losing a tooth is disheartening because it affects not only your appearance but also your self-esteem. It concerns what you eat, how you pronounce your words, and what kind of smile you wear. Fortunately, advanced dentistry pays a very significant focus to aesthetic and functional restoration, with one of the most appreciated ones being the dental bridge. So, if you’re thinking about getting a dental bridge to bring the shine back into your life, you’re at the right place! In this blog post, we will explain how this amazing treatment works—complete with ‘before and after’ cases – and why the initial step is always a professional dentist consultation.
What Exactly is a Dental Bridge?
Imagine a bridge literally bridging a gap. That’s essentially what a dental bridge does. This is a permanent dental prosthetic device (cannot be taken out like a denture) used to replace one or more missing teeth by ‘bridging’ the space between your natural teeth.
How Does a Dental Bridge Work?
Generally, a dental bridge consists of three important parts which include the following.
- Abutment Crowns: These are placed over the teeth on either side of the gap, acting as anchors for the bridge.
- Pontics: These are the artificial teeth that replace the missing ones and are bonded to the abutment crowns.
- Connecting Element: This helps bond the pontics to the abutment crowns which in turn fixes the whole bridge securely.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges could be of different types, depending on the needs of each patient.
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common since they involve having dental crowns on both sides of the bridge which holds the pontics.
- Cantilever Bridges: Anchored on just one side, this type of bridge is employed depending on the circumstance that there is only one natural tooth beside the gap.
- Maryland Bridges: These bridges are less invasive and use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth for support.
- These bridges are less complicated and involve the use of a porcelain or metal framework bonded to the back of the neighboring teeth.
Your dentist will recommend the most suitable type of bridge during your dentist consultation, based on factors like the location of the gap, the health of your surrounding teeth, and your aesthetic preferences.
Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge:
- Restored Smile: The first and fairly obvious advantage is that you get your smile back in the sense that there are no tell-tale signs of the dental work performed. Bridges are made to order and fit perfectly from the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, thus blending in perfectly.
- Improved Chewing Function: A missing tooth can make chewing difficult. A dental bridge restores your ability to chew properly, allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods comfortably.
- Clearer Speech: Missing teeth can affect your speech, causing lisps or whistling sounds. Dental bridges help you regain clear and confident speech.
- Maintained Facial Structure: Gaps left by missing teeth can cause your facial muscles to sag, making you appear older. Bridges provide support for your facial structure, helping you maintain a youthful appearance.
The Journey to a New Smile: What to Expect
- Dentist Consultation: The first stage in your journey is dentist consultation. Your dentist will look at your teeth and take X-rays to find out what treatment you need. They will give you an overview of each type of bridge, the process of bridging and answer your questions and concerns.
- Preparation: If a traditional bridge is chosen, the abutment teeth will just be reduced through the shaving and grinding of a small amount of the enamel layer to enable the crowns to fit perfectly. This is done to create a perfect or a custom-fit bridge.
- Temporary Bridge Placement: A temporary bridge will be placed on your teeth while the permanent bridge is being made by a dental laboratory.
- Permanent Bridge Placement: Once ready, you will come back for the removal of the temporary bridge and the bonding of the permanent bridge. Your dentist will devise the necessary changes to make sure the bridge fits comfortably and securely.
How to Make Your Dental Bridge Last
With proper care, your dental bridge can last for many years. Here are some key tips:
- Brush and floss diligently: Pay special attention to cleaning around the bridge, especially where it meets the gum line.
- Use an interdental brush: This specialized tool helps clean under the pontic and around the abutment teeth.
- Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings to ensure your bridge stays in good condition.
Are You Ready to Bridge the Gap and Smile with Confidence?
Losing a tooth is not the end of the world or the end of a guaranteed beautiful smile. Dental bridges are effective and aesthetically pleasing, as they provide a natural and permanent way of replacing your missing teeth. Are you considering a total smile makeover? To take the first step towards getting a beautiful smile, contact Hands on Dental for a dentist consultation today.