7 Facts You Need to Know Before Getting a Dental Bridge
Millions of people struggle with the difficulties of tooth loss every day. They have smiles, speech, dental function, and self-esteem issues. Although tooth loss cannot always be avoided, you can replace a missing tooth or teeth with dental bridges. Read on for some important facts you ought to know before getting a dental bridge in Chicago.
7 Important Facts to Consider Before a Dental Bridge Procedure
Knowing about a particular dental treatment helps you make an informed decision. In addition, you will know what to expect before visiting the dentist near you. Below are some facts about dental bridges you ought to know beforehand.
- What are dental bridges?
They are custom-made replacement teeth that fill gaps caused by missing teeth. A dental bridge can replace one or more than one missing teeth restoring your bite, smile and natural facial shape. It consists of a prosthetic tooth made of ceramic, porcelain or metal alloys. The false tooth is attached to adjacent teeth on either side of the gap, forming a bridge-like device.
- Are there different types of dental bridges?
Yes, there are various types of dental bridges. They include traditional, Cantilever, Maryland and implant-supported bridges.
- Traditional bridges consist of a false tooth anchored in place using two crowns. The crowns are placed on healthy teeth on both sides of the gap, anchoring it in the mouth.
- Cantilever bridges resemble traditional bridges. However, the false tooth is secured using one crown instead of two. It is applied to a tooth on one side of the created gap, securing it.
- Maryland bridges use metal or porcelain frameworks to hold false teeth in place instead of crowns. The bridge work with the artificial tooth attached to the back of surrounding teeth. Dentists use this dental bridge for front teeth restorations as it is not easily seen.
- Implant-supported bridges are secured to the jaw using titanium implants. The dentist surgically places a small post in your jawbone and attaches the bridgework. These bridges are ideal for replacing several teeth in an arch. they are used when teeth surrounding the gap cannot support regular bridges.
- Why get dental bridges?
Missing teeth, particularly in the smiling area, affect your appearance, speech and self-confidence. That is why most people seek dental bridges for front teeth. However, others are inclined to ignore missing teeth located at the back of the mouth. This is not recommended, as the teeth will shift into the gap, causing misalignment issues.
As a result, you will have mouth and gum pain when teeth shift. If your bite is affected, an uneven bite will cause discomfort when chewing. In addition, missing teeth lead to speech difficulties. You will be unable to pronounce most words correctly due to the gap. Tooth loss also impacts your facial shape, causing you to look older.
Dental bridges replace missing teeth in a fast and straightforward procedure. They improve your speaking and chewing abilities, restore your smile and reduce early aging. Bridges also enhance self-confidence and relieve pain and discomfort caused by uneven bites.
- Dental bridges are not a permanent fix
Although bridges mimic real teeth in function and appearance, they are not permanent. They wear down over time and must be replaced every 5-7 years. If you have implant-supported bridges, only the false teeth will be replaced.
- Bridges do not prevent gum and bone loss
Bridgework replaces a single or several missing teeth effectively. However, they do not stimulate the bone and gum tissue. As a result, you may experience jawbone loss and gum recession with time. However, implant-supported bridges prevent jaw bone deterioration.
- Your adjacent teeth are affected
When placing bridges, the dentist in Chicago must prepare the adjacent teeth to support the restoration. They will reduce the teeth’s size to allow the crowns to anchor the bridge comfortably.
- Caring for dental bridges is easy
Dental bridges require minimum maintenance and care. You should brush and floss them properly each day. Also, regularly attend follow-up visits with your dentist.
Our team at Dental Impressions understands the importance of a beautiful and functional smile. That is why we offer various restorative dental care options, including dental bridges. Schedule an appointment to determine the best choice for restoring your smile.