Where teeth are lost due to injury or decay, the resultant gap must be closed as soon as possible in order to better preserve one’s oral structure, function and comfort. The main reason behind this is that where gaps occur in the mouth, the remaining natural teeth have a tendency to shift out of position in order to close the gap. Needless to say, this can create problems with one’s bite, the shape of one’s face, and it can even interfere with their ability to speak normally. Depending upon your specific situation, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge to resolve the gaps left by missing teeth.
The Benefit of Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a tooth restoration device that quite literally bridges the gap that is created by one or several missing teeth. It is made up of a false tooth or false teeth (these are called pontics) and is supported on either side of the gap by crowns that are attached to natural teeth (these are called abutment teeth). Pontics can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or some combination of these materials, and are designed with the idea of restoring ideal structure, function and comfort as closely as possible.
If you are suffering the undesirable effects caused by missing teeth, the placement of a dental bridge will help you to experience:
- A restored smile
- A restored ability to chew and speak properly
- Maintained facial shape
- Proper bite force distribution
- Lack of remaining tooth movement
Receiving Dental Bridges
There are three primary types of dental bridges, each designed for a different purpose:
- Traditional bridges. These bridges are the most common type in use today, and are made of porcelain that has been fused to metal and ceramic. They are supported by crowns that have been placed on abutment teeth.
- Cantilever bridges. These bridges are not used very often today, and are never used at the back of the mouth because they can cause biting forces to be unevenly distributed to other teeth. They are used occasionally when there are only abutment teeth on one side of the gap and your dentist determines they are the best solution.
- Maryland bonded bridges. These bridges have “wings” on one side, which are made of either metal or porcelain, that are bonded to abutment teeth. They can be made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or can even be made of plastic teeth and gums that are supported by metal or porcelain framework.
When your dentist has determined that a dental bridge is an appropriate solution for restoring your oral structure and function following tooth loss, they will prepare you to come in for at least two visits. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth. In order to make room for a dental crown, the abutment teeth will need to be reduced in size and contoured. Then, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth so that the dental bridge can be made specifically for your mouth. Finally, your dentist will create a temporary bridge that you can wear to protect the prepared abutment teeth until your permanent bridge is placed in your mouth. He will send your dental impressions and any measurements and other necessary information to the dental laboratory where your dental bridge will be created. Once he receives your dental bridge, he will have you schedule your second dental visit. During your second dental visit your dentist will remove your temporary bridge and place your new permanent bridge in your mouth. He will then adjust the bridge as necessary in order to ensure it is fitting properly and is comfortable. In many cases, fixed bridges are temporarily cemented into place and further dental visits are scheduled so that your dentist can check and make sure that the bridge is truly fitting properly. Once he is satisfied that it is well adjusted and working as intended, he will permanently cement the bridge in place.
Following Dental Bridge Placement
It can take some time to get used to a dental bridge, especially when it comes to eating and speaking. However, a dental bridge is designed to help make these important tasks easy and comfortable, so after some time you will become accustomed to it and begin to eat and speak normally and naturally.
Well taken care of, dental bridges can last for fifteen years, sometimes even longer. Your dentist will encourage you to maintain good oral hygiene habits and visit him for regular examinations and cleanings in order to better ensure your bridge’s longevity.
For more information about dental bridges, contact Today’s Dental now.