Categories: Dental Bridges

When Is a Dental Bridge Recommended to Replace Missing Teeth?

A dental bridge, sometimes described as fixed partial dentures, is a type of dental restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are made of porcelain or other materials. The tooth or teeth on either side of the gap are prepared to receive crowns and false teeth (known as pontics). The false teeth are then attached to the crowns. This creates a new structure that resembles a natural bridge, replacing your lost teeth or tooth. A dental bridge can restore your natural appearance and improve your chewing ability. They are also good for preventing bone loss in the jawbone after a tooth or teeth loss.

The need to replace missing teeth

Replacing missing teeth is good for oral health. However, due to the cost of dental restoration, many people delay replacing missing teeth. Unfortunately, the delay worsens the problem, potentially increasing the cost of tooth replacement. Some side effects of untreated tooth loss include gum disease, shifting of adjacent teeth, jawbone deterioration, TMJ pain, and uneven biting power.

When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift. The shift may cause the person to have an improper bite, which in turn can cause them to be at a higher risk of breaking another tooth. The other teeth may also become loose and fall out, or even worse, they may become so misaligned that they begin affecting how the patient’s jawbone fits together.

In addition, the shift of the remaining teeth can lead to speech problems and chewing issues. Since we use our teeth to help pronounce certain words, missing one or more teeth can subtly affect how a patient speaks. Since a missing tooth or teeth affect the way the patient’s jaw functions, it can then start a domino effect and negatively impact how the muscles work during chewing and swallowing.

How dental bridges work

 A dental bridge bridges the gap between the teeth. A dentist will use healthy teeth on the side of the gap to support the bridge securely. A dental bridge is mostly recommended when a patient still has healthy and strong teeth to support a replacement. The bridge consists of two parts: the permanent tooth to cover the space and dental crowns that cover the existing teeth. Depending on the number and position of missing teeth, the dental bridge may have more than two crowns and replacement teeth.

Dental bridges look and function like natural teeth. Unlike dentures, they are fixed in place. Patients will be able to eat, smile, and talk as usual without worrying about the appearance of their smiles. The bridge is produced from biocompatible materials, promotes gum health, and slows down the rate of bone loss.

Getting a dental bridge

A person with missing or damaged teeth needs to book an appointment with a dentist for a consultation. The dentist will examine the teeth during the appointment and review possible options. When only one to three teeth are missing consecutively, a dental bridge is one of the most effective options for tooth replacement. Also, the nearby teeth (called abutments) that will support the bridge need to be healthy and have a good root system. The success of the dental bridge relies on how long the abutment teeth hold up.

If the patient is ready, the dentist may begin the preparation process for the bridge at the first dental visit. The adjacent teeth will be scraped for the incoming crown, and impressions will be taken. The impressions ensure the final bridge fits perfectly in the mouth. The dentist will provide a temporary bridge to protect the teeth during the production of the permanent bridge.

When the final bridge is ready, the patient will return for another appointment. The dentist will remove the temporary bridge and bond the new dental bridge into place. Then, they will examine it and make necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.

In conclusion

In some cases, a dental bridge may be recommended as an alternative to dentures if the person has lost teeth due to trauma or disease. Dental bridges provide function and an aesthetically pleasing appearance for people who have lost one or more teeth, but they differ in terms of their placement and durability. In addition, not seeking care for missing teeth can lead to more severe problems such as misalignments, crowding of your teeth, damage to the remaining teeth, and more.

You must visit a dental office if you have had missing teeth for a while or recently lost them. Our dentist will recommend the most effective option, which could be a dental bridge, to restore the function and appearance of your smile.

Sonoran Desert Dentistry offers dental bridges as effective treatment options for those experiencing the loss of their teeth. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for this treatment option, call our Scottsdale office at (480) 439-0117 to schedule an appointment. To learn more about our services and process, visit https://sonorandesertdentistry.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridge in Scottsdale, AZ.

Recent Posts

Improve Your Oral Health With A Dental Bridge

Think you might need a dental bridge? Read on to learn more about this restoration. According to the National Institute of Craniofacial and Dental Research, adults aged 20–64 have an average of three decayed or missing teeth. A dental bridge is among the most important restorative dentistry procedures, helping to restore optimal dental health and…

What Is A Dental Bridge?

Along with other treatments, a dental bridge is a common way to improve a smile and help you feel better about your appearance. This procedure can replace missing teeth and close embarrassing gaps in your mouth. If you undergo this process, you can have less anxiety in social situations and want to open your mouth…

Oral Hygiene Routines For Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are effective at replacing missing teeth. However, having a bridge does not mean that you can neglect your oral hygiene. On the contrary, with a bridge, dental hygiene becomes even more important than before. However, you may have to learn new techniques for cleaning your dental bridge, as well as avoid some behaviors…

Repairing Gaps With A Dental Bridge

Did you know that you can repair teeth gaps with a dental bridge? The purpose of a dental bridge is to replace missing teeth, which often leads to cosmetic, functional, and oral health concerns. Understanding the pros and cons of dental bridge treatment can help you decide whether it is right for you or if…

Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Share
Published by
Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Recent Posts

How Invisalign for Teens Improves Smiles

A teenage boy or girl who deals with a crooked smile or uneven bite could…

4 days ago

Ask Your Dentist About Invisalign for Teens

As a child’s mouth and teeth develop into adolescence, it may become apparent that there…

6 days ago

Invisalign for Teens: What Foods to Avoid

Many families with adolescents in need of straighter smiles are opting for Invisalign® for teens…

1 week ago

When Is Getting a Dental Crown Necessary?

A dental crown is a way to extend the life of a badly damaged tooth…

2 weeks ago

Orthodontic Issues Invisalign Can Treat

  However, it is important that patients understand that they must consistently wear the trays…

2 weeks ago

Invisalign for Teens: What to Ask Your Dentist

Invisalign® for teens refers to the clear plastic device worn to straighten teeth as an…

2 weeks ago