Losing permanent teeth can impact your oral health while affecting how you speak and chew, increasing the risks of oral health problems. If you have lost one or more teeth and are looking for an option to replace them, it might be time to consider getting a dental bridge.
Replacing one or more missing teeth with a dental bridge helps cover the gaps the lost tooth creates. Hence, reducing the chances of further tooth loss or dental restoration challenges.
Keep reading the blog to explore signs you might need a dental bridge.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Prosthetic dental devices called dental bridges bridge the space a missing tooth leaves. Dental bridges are constructed using pontics, artificial teeth supported by crowns (abutments) on both sides. These dental crowns are affixed to the neighboring teeth to support the bridge.
Structure And Components Of Dental Bridges
Bridges are created to match the existing teeth’s size, shape, and color. These bridges ensure a natural grin and a seamless fit. The components of dental bridges comprise supporting elements to keep your bridge in place. Based on your dental needs or the form of your bridge, your dental bridge could comprise either a single pontic or multiple pontics supported by abutment teeth or implants.
Factors Affecting Dental Bridge Sustainability
Factors that may affect the success of a dental bridge are:
- You Have Gum Disease
Before considering dental bridges, patients with gum disease must have the condition treated and addressed. Hence, after it is treated, you restore gum health, and your dental hygienist will determine whether you would benefit more from a dental bridge. - You’re Diabetic
Another issue for diabetic individuals who wish to get dental bridges is slow wound healing, which raises the risk of infection. Since dental bridges are less invasive and can be a safer option, your general dentist might suggest one. - You Take Specific Drugs
Some drugs might affect your dental bridges, and it is important to let your dentist know about any drugs you are taking. Such as steroids like prednisone that suppress the immune system, serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and bone-density drugs(bisphosphonates). Thus, drugs might lead to an increased risk of dental failure. Therefore, your dentist will determine whether you are a better fit for a dental bridge after reviewing your prescriptions.
Why Get Dental Bridges?
There are many advantages of getting dental bridges, such as:
- Improving the appearance of your smile
- Improving speech naturally
- Lowering the risk of decay
- Maintaining your facial structure
- Balancing out your bite force
- Improving stability
The Final Verdict!
With proper dental hygiene, bridges have an average lifespan of five to seven years. Thus, they can be an excellent solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. While improving functionality, a dental bridge treatment is a reliable solution to enhance overall well-being.
AK DENTAL of Austin works closely with patients to understand their tooth replacement needs. If you want to replace two or more missing teeth and learn more about dental bridges, contact us at (512) 827-9958.