Dentists can use dental bridges to fill in the gaps created by missing teeth. The bridge will help restore your bite and keep the natural shape of your face. This article will look at how dental bridges are made and the type of bridge best for you based on your individual needs.
What Happens to Gaps Caused by Missing Teeth?
A missing tooth can cause many problems because teeth are meant to work together. When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth will tilt into the space left by the missing tooth. The teeth in the opposite jaw may also drift into the space, affecting your bite and putting more stress on your teeth and jaw joints. This can cause pain and damage.
When a tooth is missing, the bone begins to shrink. This can cause changes in the way the jawbone supports the cheeks and lips. This can make your face look older over time.
What Are the Types of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges come in different varieties to fit each person’s specific needs. Some people prefer implant-supported bridges, which use dental implants to hold the bridge. Implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, providing support for the bridge.
If you opt for implant-supported bridges, you won’t need support from the teeth next to the space. But you must be healthy overall and have enough bone in your mouth for the implant. For some people, implants can help preserve the jawbone from where the tooth loss occurred. The implants can be inserted in one day or might take multiple visits, depending on your dentist’s treatment plan.
What Are Dental Bridges Made from?
Dental bridges are created from metal, ceramics, or a combination of the two materials. The material used depends on the bridge’s location and the patient’s bite strength.
Dental bridges that fill the gap caused by several missing teeth are usually made from a combination of metal and ceramic. A combination bridge is anchored by metal on each side of the gap. The metal is then covered with a ceramic shell and the remaining portion of the bridge.
Porcelain or ceramic material is used because it is porous and can absorb pressure from masticatory forces. Metal bridges can also be made from gold, another durable material.
How Is a Dental Bridge Placed?
When you come in for your first appointment, the dentist will work on preparing the teeth on both sides of the gap. They will also make an impression on these teeth and the space between them. This will be sent to the dental laboratory, where the technicians can follow the dentist’s instructions and make the bridge. You may be given a temporary bridge to wear while you wait for the permanent one.
Once the dental laboratory sends back your permanent bridge, your dentist will fit, adjust and bond the bridge to the prepared teeth. Unlike a removable bridge, a fixed bridge cannot be taken out of your mouth without the help of a dentist.
Conclusion
If you’re missing a tooth or teeth, a dental bridge may be a great solution to help restore your smile. You will be given a permanent replacement for the missing tooth. Your dentist can help you decide whether an implant-supported bridge or a fixed bridge is best for you.
Danvers Aesthetic Family Dentistry is your local dentist in Danvers, offering everything from basic services, like general cleanings and exams, to more complex procedures, like implant surgery and gum disease treatment. We have a long-standing reputation for providing gentle, comfortable dental care. If you’re considering getting removable dental bridges, book an appointment with us! Call our Danvers office at (978) 774-0725.