What Is A Dental Bridge?
What is a Dental Bridge?
It is a fixed dental prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. The dental bridge works by filling the empty area left by a missing tooth. The bridge is secured to the teeth located on the opposite ends of the gap. The bridge is attached to the adjacent teeth through the use of a dental crown. The bridge is a fixed tooth replacement option.
Why is it needed?
The most common reason for a dental bridge is to restore lost chewing and speaking function created by missing teeth. When teeth are missing, especially the teet at the back of the mouth, chewing tough foods such as steak becomes difficult. A bridge is also a better aesthetic option than wearing a partial denture to replace a missing tooth.
Another reason for dental bridges is to prevent other teeth from shifting in a gap created when a tooth is missing. Often the teeth on opposite ends of the gap may start to move which can affect the way you bite. The teeth above the gap may also begin to extend into the free space. This can cause you to experience improper biting which may lead to jaw problems.
Dental bridges also close up space where food may get caught while eating. Food traps become uncomfortable for most people as the gums become more inflamed. If food is not regularly removed, it leaves people at a higher risk of decay on the adjacent teeth.
Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge is a multi-step process. First, the dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth for a crown. This step requires removing a small portion of the enamel to allow the crowns to fit correctly. Once this has been done, impressions of your teeth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory. Your dentist may make a temporary bridge to wear over the prepared teeth until the bridge is ready. Once the bridge has been made, your dentist will ensure it fits and make any necessary adjustment before final placement.
Contact us to schedule an appointment, or to learn more about dental bridges.