Dental Bridges in Byford

There are several options available to replace missing teeth, including dental bridges. Here are four types of dental bridges that your dentist might recommend:

• Traditional fixed bridge.
  This is the most common type of bridge. It consists of at least two crowns and a filler tooth or teeth, called a pontic, attached together. The crowns attach the bridge to your teeth. In traditional bridges, metal, porcelain fused to metal, or ceramic is used.
• Cantilever bridge.
  This bridge only has one pontic and one crown attached to an abutment tooth. Occasionally, this can be an option for people who have teeth on only one side of the gap.
• Maryland dental bridge (resin-bonded bridge).
  If you have missing front teeth, this type of bridge may be right for you. A Maryland bridge has wings attached to either side of the existing teeth. It is usually made of porcelain fused to metal or ceramic teeth, supported by a framework.
• Implant-supported bridge.
  An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional fixed bridge, but it is attached to implants instead of being anchored to the teeth.

Dentists consider dental bridges a good alternative to dental implants, although they are not as durable as implants. Furthermore, dental bridges are not as expensive as dental implants. This makes it a more appealing solution for people wanting to replace their missing teeth on a budget.

The consequences of having at least one missing tooth go far beyond aesthetics. Your oral health may be negatively affected as well. This is because when you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth will shift into the spaces left by the lost teeth. For teeth to remain aligned and healthy, they must be in contact with each other. A dental bridge can maintain the proper alignment and natural spacing between the teeth preventing further development of dental problems.

Getting a dental bridge usually requires at least two appointments. Dentists usually use different techniques, but here is a general view of what to expect.

First appointment:

• Abutment teeth preparation.
  During your first visit, your dentist will reshape the abutment teeth. The abutment teeth are the two teeth adjacent to the space. The tooth will be trimmed so that the crown can be placed.
• Impressions.
  During the procedure, impressions or scans of your teeth are made by your dentist. The dental laboratory uses the mould or scan as a model for creating your bridge, false teeth, and crowns. While your permanent bridge is made, you’ll wear a temporary bridge to protect the exposed areas in your mouth.

Second appointment:

• Permanent bridge placement.
  Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and replace it with the dental bridge. To ensure you are comfortable with the bridge, your provider will carefully check it and make any necessary adjustments.

Typically, patients adjust to a new dental bridge within two weeks to one month. As each day passes, patients will notice improvements, gradually becoming accustomed to the bridge’s presence.

You should still floss regularly, even if you have dental bridges. This is because food and plaque can still build up around the base of the bridge, leading to decay and gum disease. However, flossing with dental bridges can be tricky, so it’s important to talk to your dentist or hygienist about the best way to do it. They may recommend using a special floss threader or interdental brush to help reach all the areas around the bridge. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to keep your teeth and gums healthy – even with dental bridges!

Dental bridges are constructed from materials that can withstand the normal wear and tear of biting and chewing but have a limited lifespan. Suppose you want to prolong the lifespan of a dental bridge. In that case, you must maintain proper dental hygiene practices and avoid foods and beverages that can prematurely damage these restorations, such as:

• Gum, caramel and sticky foods
• Sugary treats
• Nuts, chips, and hard foods
• Wine, coffee, and cola

How long a dental bridge lasts depends on the material it is made from and how well it is cared for. Dental bridges made from metal are generally the longest lasting, while those made from porcelain may last 5-7 years. However, with proper care and regular dental visits, most bridges will last 10-15 years or longer.