Missing teeth can not only affect your smile but also your overall oral health. Dental bridges are a popular solution that can restore both function and aesthetics. But how exactly are these bridges attached? Let's delve into the process.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Dental bridges, as the name implies, bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They are composed of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. These anchoring teeth are known as abutment teeth, while the false teeth are called pontics.
The materials used for the pontics can vary from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these. Dental bridges can help restore your smile, the ability to speak and chew properly, maintain the shape of your face, and distribute the forces in your bite correctly by replacing missing teeth.
The Process of Attaching Dental Bridges
The first step involves preparing the abutment teeth. This process involves recontouring these teeth by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are made, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic, and crowns will be made by a dental lab. Your dentist will make a temporary bridge to wear to protect the exposed teeth and gums while the bridge is being made.
During the second visit, your temporary bridge will be removed and the new porcelain or metal bridge will be checked and adjusted, as necessary, to achieve a proper fit. Multiple visits may be required to check the fit of the metal framework and bite. This is dependent on each individual's case.
The Types of Dental Bridges
There are four types of dental bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported. The traditional type is the most common and involves creating a crown for the tooth or implant on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between. The cantilever bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. The Maryland bridge uses two natural abutment teeth, one on each side of the gap. Lastly, implant-supported bridges use dental implants as opposed to crowns or frameworks.
Each type of dental bridge offers unique benefits and may be more suitable for certain situations and conditions. Your dentist will help you choose the most appropriate type based on your needs and preferences.
The Benefits and Care of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer numerous benefits including restoring your smile, allowing you to eat and speak properly, maintaining your face shape, and preventing remaining teeth from shifting. They can last five to 15 years and even longer with good oral hygiene and regular checkups.
Good oral health is crucial for the longevity of your dental bridge. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Regular checkups and cleanings are also essential. Even though pontics are not susceptible to cavities, they can still lead to gum disease if not properly cared for. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential.
Looking for Dental Bridges in Rice Military, TX?
If you're considering dental bridges, it's important to find a trusted dental professional to guide you through the process. At Flo Dentistry, Dr. Omar Amin is committed to providing high-quality dental care in a comfortable and friendly environment. Serving the Rice Military, TX area, we're here to help restore your smile and confidence. Don't wait to improve your oral health, call us today at (713) 893-5526 to schedule an appointment.