Dental Bridges An Overview
Replacing missing teeth is extremely important. Gaps between teeth can leave the gums open to infection and bacteria and over time the bone can deteriorate and affect neighboring teeth. Dental bridges are used to literally “bridge the gap” between teeth in order to fill in the gaps created by missing teeth.
Fox Lake dentist Dr. Thomas Prendergast offers several treatment options for missing teeth including dental bridges. An experienced restorative dentist, he can evaluate your teeth and gums to determine if a dental bridge is right for you. Dental bridges can be placed using your natural teeth as anchors or dental implants.
Benefits of Dental Bridges:
- Restore your smile by closing gaps that lost teeth leave behind. Dental bridges are an economical way to fill in the gaps in your smile.
- Properly chew and speak without having to consciously think about it. It can be frustrating and distracting when you have to think about what foods you can and can’t eat because of missing teeth.
- Maintain the shape of your face. Missing teeth left unaddressed can contribute to premature facial sagging.
- Bite properly by distributing forces evenly with a dental bridge in place.
- Dental Bridges will prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position. They can also help deter gum disease and cavities.
Dental Implant: An Alternative to A Dental Bridge
Old dental bridges can place stress on your natural, surrounding teeth. If your surrounding teeth are healthy, a better option to replace missing teeth for you might be dental implants. If one tooth is missing, an implant can be placed to restore natural structure and function to your bite without having to impact healthy neighboring teeth.
When several consecutive teeth need to be replaced, dental implants can secure a dental bridge for a more stable long-term result. This type of restoration is permanent as well. They do not require special care, and there is no need to remove implants every day before bed.
An implant-secured bridge is ideal because it eliminates needing to have stress on your natural teeth. Though they’re often fortified with dental crowns, teeth that are anchors for a dental bridge are more susceptible to tooth decay and damage. Implants do require a certain amount of healthy tooth structure. We’ll determine whether implants or an implant-supported bridge are the right choice for you.
Dental Bridges FAQs
How many teeth can be on a bridge?
Modern dental bridges can replace a large row of missing teeth, known as implant-supported bridges. Traditional bridges can replace anywhere between 2 to 6 consecutively missing teeth.
Are bridges bad for your teeth?
No. Bridges do not usually contribute to tooth damage. However, if you have an ill-fitting bridge that wiggles, you can be susceptible to cavities forming under your bridge crowns.
What can you not eat with a dental bridge?
You should avoid eating very gummy and very sticky foods. Your bridge is not susceptible to tooth stains. Hard foods like nuts can also damage your bridge.
Why does my dental bridge hurt?
Your bridge may not fit snuggly. They can cause gum irritation and tooth pain if they do not fit properly. We can adjust your bridge or recommend other options with a dental exam.
How do you floss with a dental bridge?
Flossing between teeth in a dental bridge is not possible. The fake teeth are fused together. However, you can floss under a bridge by using a floss threader. You can find this item at your local drug or grocery store.