Dental Bridges
Rockford & Loves Park, IL
Dental Bridges
Rockford & Loves Park, IL
Dental bridges, also known as fixed bridges, can be used to replace several missing teeth at once. Dental bridges are used to close the gap between teeth. They literally bridge the gap between two teeth.
Replacing one or more missing teeth can be easily achieved with the use of a dental bridge. If you are missing teeth you may feel self-conscious about your appearance, but the health implications of missing teeth go beyond what someone sees when you smile.
The team at Burch Dental has a simple goal. That is to ensure your trust through our commitment to quality treatment and your continued satisfaction. It is our daily agenda to maintain a caring environment that is respectful and comfortable for everyone. Our team members are united in our efforts to promote oral health by means of prevention, enhancement, wellness, and rejuvenation. Call or visit one of our convenient locations today to schedule your appointment for an evaluation regarding a dental bridge restorative solution.
Several issues can arise because of missing teeth. These include additional tooth loss, decay, and more. Your remaining teeth will often shift to fill the open space, and gums and surrounding tissue will become more susceptible to decay and disease.
The Components of a Dental Bridge
Dental bridges, also known as fixed bridges, can be used to replace several missing teeth at once. Dental bridges are used to close the gap between teeth. They literally bridge the gap between two teeth.
Fixed bridges are solutions used by Burch Dental to replace missing teeth. Bridges are made up of two major parts. The first part is known as the pontic, which is an artificial tooth. In cases where more than one tooth needs to be replaced, multiple pontics are used. The second part of the fixed bridge is the structure or part that holds the false tooth or pontic in place.
There are a few types of fixed bridges that may be used to replace missing teeth. The kind of bridge used will depend on how many teeth are missing, and the condition of the surrounding teeth.
The Dental Bridge Types
The first type of dental bridge involves uses crowns on both sides of the new tooth. These crowns are prepared as part of the bridge and therefore create three or more new teeth in a row. A second type of dental bridge involves using metal or ceramic “wings” or bands that are fused onto the existing teeth to support the new bridge. Both are viable solutions depending on the health and shape of the existing teeth.
Options to Consider
There are several things to consider when it comes to having dental bridges placed on teeth. For example, over time the metal bands used in the second type of bridge can start to wear away the existing teeth that support the bridge. This type of bridge can also turn surrounding teeth a grey color over time depending on the location of the bridge. You may not be concerned with the aesthetics of a metal-band bridge. Dental bridges can be fixed or partial, which can be removed.
Dental Bridge Benefits
The benefits of having a dental bridge far outweigh any risks. For example, having an artificial tooth placed in the space where a tooth is missing will reduce the likelihood of neighboring teeth shifting into the gap.
Even though the root space cannot be held, the physical space can be maintained reducing the movement of neighboring teeth. Another benefit of having a dental bridge includes the proper bite alignment and contact of teeth, which is essential to reducing the risk of jaw problems, discomfort and pain, premature wearing of enamel and more.
Another benefit includes maintaining a more natural look of your face. Missing teeth can cause the skin on the face to sag, which can make you look older than you are and having a full set of teeth also helps you look younger. Of course, having a dental bridge also helps to improve both self-esteem and self-confidence.
Dental Bridge Materials
Dental bridges may be made from several long-lasting materials such as porcelain and zirconia. The crowns placed over your neighboring teeth used to secure the bridge are typically made of porcelain. You can choose metal alloys or even gold, depending on your preferences. Sometimes glass is used in porcelain mixtures to create a shine finish, like your natural teeth. Whatever your pontics and crowns are made from, caring for them is vital to their longevity and durability.
Proper Aftercare
It is important to care for a new dental bridge in the same way you would care for your existing teeth. When they are not properly cared for, dental bridges can cause irritation, infection and even decay to your natural teeth. It is important to schedule and keep dental appointments following the placement of a dental bridge.
Special tools may be necessary to clean the bridge including threaded floss, dental picks, and water flossers for good oral health and hygiene. Continuing to brush your natural teeth, and especially the teeth immediately surrounding the dental bridge, will be critical to the success of the dental bridge.