A Dental Bridge can help replace a missing
tooth and improve your self-esteem and your confidence.
According to the American Dental Association,
over 35 million people in the United States do not have any teeth with over 178
Americans missing at least one tooth.
Tooth loss occurs because of gum disease, accidents,
or trauma to a tooth, and although dental implants are an option, not everyone
is a good candidate.
If your dentist has determined that dental
implants may not be the best solution for your missing tooth, a Fixed Dental
Bridge could be the answer. These non-removal dental appliances are an
excellent solution to missing teeth.
When you schedule an appointment for a dental
bridge, your dentist will discuss the options with you and which one would be
best for your particular needs. A traditional dental bridge is the most popular
and most common type of dental bridge and is made of porcelain that is fused to
metal. Traditional bridges are made up of two crowns that are made to fit over
two abutment or anchoring teeth that are attached to an artificial tooth or
teeth to fill the gap where your missing tooth or teeth used to be.
Dental Bridges are durable and can last for
several years, however, your dental bridge may need to be re-cemented or
replaced because of normal wear.
Reasons that your dentist may suggest a fixed
bridge include:
- Preventing your remaining teeth from drifting out of their position
- Restore your speaking
- Fill the space of your missing tooth or teeth
- Restore your chewing ability
- Give you back your smile
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Upgrade your removable partial denture
Fixed dental bridges usually require two or
more dental visits. During your first dental appointment, your dentist will
numb the area and prepare the abutment teeth by removing part of the enamel to
allow for crown fit. Once a mold or impression is made, it will be sent to the
dental lab for bridge fabrication. Your dentist will fit you with a temporary
bridge that you will wear until your new dental bridge is ready.
During your next visit, your dentist will
check your permanent bridge for fit before adjusting, if necessary, and
cementing into place. On occasion, your dentist may temporarily cement your new
bridge to allow your teeth and your tissue time to get accustomed to the new
dental bridge.
If you would like more information regarding
a fixed dental bridge, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss the
various types of bridges available.
