Dental Bridge Facts For Inquiring Patients

Some dental restorations are simple, such as dental fillings. However, more complex dental problems may require more intensive treatment. Tooth loss cannot be remedied through dental fillings alone. Fortunately, there are minimally invasive options available to people who have lost one or more teeth. One such option is a dental bridge. Here are some facts about dental bridges for anyone considering the procedure:

1. Dental bridges can have practical as well as aesthetic benefits.

People choose dental restoration for a number of reasons. A desire for a beautiful smile is one such reason. However, dental bridges are not exclusively cosmetic. They also have practical value, supporting the actions of biting and chewing. People who find that eating is painful after tooth loss may find that they can once again enjoy their favorite foods after having a dental bridge placed.

2. Dental bridges are typically placed during multiple appointments.

Like ordinary dental crowns, dental bridges must be custom-made for each patient's mouth. During your first appointment, your dentist will take scans and impressions of your teeth to ensure that your new dental bridge will fit perfectly in order to look and feel great. Your dentist will also prepare the abutting teeth during this appointment. This involves a process of reducing and shaping your teeth to prepare them for crowning. At the end of your appointment, your dentist will place temporary dental crowns over your abutment teeth to protect them until your finished dental bridge is installed.

3. Tooth loss does not need to be an impediment to dental bridge installation.

Traditional dental bridges, also known as fixed bridges, support prosthetics with a dental crown on either side of the tooth to be replaced. However, some people don't have two healthy teeth available for this dental bridge placement. Fortunately, additional options can make dental bridges accessible to people suffering from more severe tooth loss. Cantilever dental bridges are supported with a single dental crown and may be an option for replacing back molars. Dental bridges can also be supported by dental implants when no healthy teeth are available for crowning.

4. Cleaning your dental bridge does not have to be a challenge.

Like all dental appliances, dental bridges must be properly cleaned. Fortunately, they need very little special care. You can brush your dental bridge and floss around your crowned teeth as usual. The only change you'll need to make to your dental care routine is using threader floss or an interdental brush to clean below your dental bridge in order to promote good gum health.