November 18, 2024
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that fills the gap between two healthy teeth. While both crowns and bridges are used to fill gaps, they are completely different in the way they are created and placed in the mouth. A crown surrounds the entire tooth, while a bridge only covers the tooth or teeth that are missing. This is known as a fixed bridge because it stays in place permanently by attaching to the neighboring teeth on each side. This is usually done with dental crowns placed on the nearby teeth for support.
In comparison, a removable bridge can be removed. It is held in place using metal clasps.
When Are Dental Bridges Recommended?
The dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix may recommend a bridge when there are several missing teeth in a row, or the teeth surrounding the gap are unhealthy and need to be replaced.
What Are Dental Bridges Made Of?
Bridges are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, gold alloy, or a combination of these materials. Metal-free bridges can also be fabricated from zirconia or resin composite. These materials are durable enough to withstand the pressure of chewing food and can last for many years with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist’s office.
What Are Fixed Bridges?
A traditional bridge is made of multiple dental crowns that are fused together to form a bridge that can cover the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth. The crowns of the bridge are attached to the teeth adjacent to the empty space, called abutments. Once the crowns are cemented in place, the bridge is permanently bonded to the abutments and cannot be removed. Some patients prefer a fixed bridge over partial dentures because the restoration does not need to be removed for cleaning and is more aesthetically appealing than a removable appliance. However, a fixed bridge cannot just be placed in the mouth and left there indefinitely; rather, it must be regularly cleaned by the patient to prevent decay from developing around its margin or the abutments.
What Are the Benefits of a Dental Bridge?
There are a variety of benefits when it comes to replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge. Not only does this type of restoration fill in gaps caused by missing teeth, but it also restores the natural contour of the teeth as well as the proper positioning of surrounding teeth. A dental bridge can also maintain the shape of your face and prevent your remaining natural teeth from drifting out of place. Lastly, a bridge can improve your speech and prevent you from experiencing bite problems or temporomandibular joint disorder.
How Can You Care for a Dental Bridge?
If you are getting a traditional fixed bridge, it will be cemented onto your teeth. Therefore, it is much more stable than a removable bridge and doesn’t require special care instructions. As long as you practice proper oral hygiene by brushing twice per day, flossing daily, and avoiding certain foods and drinks, you shouldn’t have any issues with your bridge. In fact, it can last for an average of seven to 15 years when taken care of properly. While a fixed bridge doesn’t require special care, you should still visit your dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix regularly so that they can check on its health and spot any potential problems early on.
Am I a Candidate?
Yes, you are! As long as you have healthy teeth and gums and strong bone structures to support the bridge, you’re a candidate for this type of restoration. However, if you’ve lost teeth or have gum disease or another oral health condition, you’ll first need to have a consultation with your dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix to determine the best course of treatment.
Dr. Darian, D.D.S. of Winning Smiles Dentistry, is here to provide you with the best treatment and advice possible. To make a reservation or to learn more about our dental services, please contact us at (623) 777-7942. Alternatively, you can visit us at your nearest location to see the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix.
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