A bridge is a custom-made fixed dentistry restoration to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The bridge restores dental function and helps preserve the appearance of your face. The dentist will recommend a suitable type of dental bridge based on the specific needs of the patient. This article covers what you need to know about the process.
Losing a tooth can be devastating. Teeth are designed to function together. When a tooth is missing, the teeth near the gap can shift or tilt into the gap. The teeth in the opposite jaw may also move awkwardly into the gap when biting or chewing. This can put undue stress on the jaw joint and teeth, potentially causing discomfort and damage.
It is harder to clean shifted or crooked teeth, placing them at higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Once a tooth is lost on the jaw, the jawbone may start to shrink without proper stimulation. If this occurs, it may alter the facial structure and make the person look older.
A dental bridge in fixed dentistry allows the dentist to use the existing natural teeth on the two sides of the gap to hold the new tooth in place. Fitting a patient with a bridge typically takes more than one dental appointment.
During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. The bridge will get support from these teeth. Impressions or digital images of the teeth and gap will be taken. The information will be sent to a dental laboratory where the technicians will use that to produce the dental bridge. The bridge can be produced from metal, ceramics or a combination of both materials. The dentist will discuss the most suitable option during the appointment.
While waiting for the completion of the final bridge, the dentist will fit the patient with a temporary bridge to protect the prepared teeth. When the permanent bridge is ready, the patient will return for a second appointment. The dentist will fit and adjust the bridge as necessary before cementing the bridge permanently. The bridge is fixed and can only be taken out by a dental professional.
The dental bridge may fail if the supporting teeth or jawbone get infected by dental disease. Patients need to take oral hygiene routines seriously to maintain good oral health. Tips for caring for bridges include:
Dental bridges are indirect restorations in fixed dentistry and are designed to be permanent replacements for missing teeth. If you have a missing tooth, talk to the general dentist to discuss your options.
Get more information here: https://www.baydentalfl.com or call Bay Dental Associates: Aaron Moneyhan DMD, PA at (727) 823-2007
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Many dental professionals recommend dental implants restoration after tooth loss. Dental implants offer superior durability and functionality and look just the same as natural teeth. However, some patients are nervous about the success rate of dental implant restoration, and learning more about what the stats say can help you physically and mentally prepare yourself. According to…
Cavities are a common oral health concern that dentists can treat with restorative dentistry. While common, leaving cavities untreated for an extended amount of time can lead to severe complications, including tooth infection, dental abscess, deep tooth decay, and the loss of teeth.The good news is that treating dental cavities is relatively easy for dentists…
General dentistry is a form of dental care where practitioners provide a variety of services. Patients who see a general dentist receive preventative services to help maintain good oral health and prevent disease or damage. In addition to preventive services, general dentistry also includes restorative services and cosmetic services.Dental health is essential to a patient's…
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on keeping your mouth healthy in order to save you money. It starts with you taking good care of your mouth at home by brushing at least two times per day, flossing daily, and avoiding things that can damage teeth. Preventive dentistry also includes procedures performed…
Many dental professionals recommend dental implants restoration after tooth loss. Dental implants offer superior durability and functionality and look just the same as natural teeth. However, some patients are nervous about the success rate of dental implant restoration, and learning more about what the stats say can help you physically and mentally prepare yourself. According to…
Cavities are a common oral health concern that dentists can treat with restorative dentistry. While common, leaving cavities untreated for an extended amount of time can lead to severe complications, including tooth infection, dental abscess, deep tooth decay, and the loss of teeth.The good news is that treating dental cavities is relatively easy for dentists…