When a person has a missing tooth, one of the quick and affordable options they might consider is a dental bridge. Missing teeth affect daily dental functions and social interactions. This article covers what a dental bridge is, how it works, and how a bridge addresses a gap in the smile due to missing teeth.
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth-replacement that closes the gap left by a missing tooth. It is connected to the nearby teeth (called the abutment teeth) and may be designed to be fixed or removable. They are fabricated from different materials such as ceramic, composite resin, or acrylic, and can last for many years with proper care.
There are a few options available when it comes to dental bridges. For the procedure, the dentist will take impressions and make a model to produce an accurate replica of the lost tooth. Two crowns will also be created for the abutment teeth. For this, a layer of enamel will be removed. When the dental bridge is ready, the dentist will fit the crowns and bond the bridge to them.
Since the bridgework is permanent and attaches to the nearby teeth, patients need to take adequate care of them. If a removable bridge is used, the patient will be able to remove the retainer for cleaning. The cleaning routine is different, so patients will have to ask the dentist how to clean the bridge properly to prevent oral issues.
It is necessary to replace a missing tooth because the consequences of not doing so are significant. Normal dental functions become challenging, and smiling is more awkward. A missing tooth can also affect the surrounding teeth and the underlying jawbone.
The teeth rely on each other for support and chewing. Once a tooth is lost, other teeth have to bear more of the workload, which can cause cracks in adjacent teeth, as well as deterioration of the underlying jawbone. By replacing the missing tooth, a patient is restoring their smile, oral functions, and the structural integrity of their oral cavity.
Bridges are effective for the replacement of multiple missing teeth, as well. They are an affordable solution that can be repaired or replaced at a reasonable cost. If the adjacent teeth are in good condition, a removable bridge can be used to replace the lost tooth, allowing patients to provide adequate care for the remaining healthy teeth.
Also, if the teeth next to the dental bridge are structurally compromised, placing a crown over them can provide the necessary reinforcement required. There are many scenarios where bridges are preferred. For instance, if a patient cannot undergo complex dental procedures, the dentist might recommend this option to restore their smile.
Dentists use dental bridges to address gaps caused by missing teeth. To learn more about the procedure, or get answers to your questions, contact our dental office today to book an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.yanasedds.com or call Yanase Dental Group at (310) 736-1063 for an appointment in our Torrance office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in Torrance, CA.
One of the most common dental procedures that general dentists offer is a dental bridge. This is a method of teeth replacement that replaces one missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. A dental bridge most notably addresses a cosmetic concern, but it may offer functional and oral health benefits as well. It is helpful…
A dental crown is a cap used to completely cover back moral teeth. The process of having a crown placed is quite simple, but there are a few key preparation steps that a dentist must take first.Outlined here are the steps that a dentist takes to prepare a tooth for a dental crown. Review this…
Dental crowns are restorations that can help repair and reinforce your teeth. You may be thinking about getting long-term dental aesthetic enhancement and protection. If you are, you may want to consider getting dental crowns. There are myriad materials available for this type of restoration. Regardless of the number of crowns you want for your…
Dental crowns are a great way to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, damage or an injury. They provide individuals with a way to renew teeth so that they appear more aesthetically-pleasing, while also improving oral health and function. However, with each dental restoration, comes a few unknown things, which is…
How often an individual gets dental cleaning depends on their unique needs. Here are a…
Prosthodontists have the knowledge and training to recommend a procedure that makes sense for your…
Considering undergoing professional teeth whitening treatment services? Even though there are many over-the-counter teeth whitening…
Dental implants are a great restoration option for someone with missing teeth or teeth that…
Disorder of the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is a condition that can cause difficulty with…
Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that causes swelling where the gums meet the…
