Dental bridges are popular among patients looking to restore their smiles and fill in missing teeth. While bridges offer many benefits, they also have some disadvantages you should consider before making a decision. In this blog post, Byford Smiles will discuss the disadvantages of traditional bridges and whether you should get them or not. Read more!
What are the Disadvantages of Dental Bridges?
One of the top disadvantages of dental bridges is that they require healthy teeth for support. This means that if the abutment teeth are already weakened or damaged, they may not be able to support traditional bridges.
Another disadvantage of bridges is that they require implant surgery. The procedure to place dental implants is a surgical one, so it carries with it all of the risks associated with any surgery, such as infection and bleeding. In addition, there is a risk that the implant could be rejected by your body or that it could fail to fuse to your bone. This means that there is a greater risk of complications and side effects associated with the surgery. Additionally, it will take several months for the implant-supported bridges to fully heal and integrate into the jawbone before you can use them to chew or speak. During this time, you will need to be careful about what you eat and avoid putting any pressure on the implant.
Additionally, dental bridges can be expensive. The cost of dental implants can range from a few thousand dollars depending on the number of teeth that need replacing and the complexity of the procedure. Insurance may not cover the cost of dental implants, so you will need to pay for them out of pocket.
Another downside to dental bridges is that they can trap food and bacteria between the bridge and the gum line. Traditional bridges can make it more difficult to floss and brush properly, which can increase the risk of decay and gum diseases. You will need to schedule regular dental visits to have the bridge checked and cleaned.
Finally, dental implants can be uncomfortable. They may cause pain or irritation at the site of the implant and affect your ability to eat or speak.
If you are considering dental implants, be sure to discuss all of the risks and disadvantages with your dentist before making a decision. Dental bridges can be a great option for some people, but they are not right for everyone. It’s important to consider all options to make the best decision for your oral health.
What are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?
That said, there are advantages to choosing dental bridges as a tooth replacement option, including:
- Improved chewing ability –
Dental bridges can help restore your ability to chew properly by filling in the blank spaces in your teeth. This can help improve your nutrition and make it easier to digest food. - Improved speaking ability –
Missing teeth can cause difficulty with speaking clearly. Dental bridges can help correct this issue. - Maintained facial shape –
Without support from the teeth, your jawbone and facial muscles can begin to sag, causing your face to take on a more aged appearance. Dental bridges help provide support to keep your facial structure intact. - Prevention of remaining teeth from shifting –
When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift out of place. This can cause bite issues and make it difficult to clean your teeth properly. A dental bridge can help to prevent your remaining natural teeth from shifting out of place. This can help to improve your bite and make it easier for you to chew and speak. - Improved smile –
Another advantage of bridges is that they can help to restore the natural appearance of your smile. Dental bridges can be made from porcelain, which is matched to the colour of your existing teeth. This can help to create a beautiful and natural-looking smile.
Is Getting Dental Bridges Safe?
Like all dental procedures, there are some risks involved in getting dental bridges. The most common complication is gum irritation, where the bridge attaches to the abutment teeth. This can usually be resolved with over-the-counter pain relievers and by gently flossing and brushing around the bridge. In rare cases, an infection can develop around the base of the bridge. If this happens, you will need to see your dentist right away to have the infection treated. Other potential risks include:
- Allergic reactions to the materials used in the bridge
- Damage to the abutment teeth during the procedure
- Nerve damage
- Problems with eating or speaking
- Problems with the fit of the bridge, which can cause discomfort or pain
Despite these potential risks, dental bridges are generally considered safe and effective. You can discuss the risks and benefits of dental bridges with your dentist before your procedure.
What Treatment Alternatives Can You Try?
If you are not a good candidate for a dental bridge, there are other dental treatments available to you. These include:
- Dental implants
These are titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone. They act as artificial roots and can support one or more false teeth, called dental crowns. - Partial dentures
These are removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth. They are usually made of plastic and metal, and they are held in place by natural suction or metal clasps that attach to adjacent teeth. - Complete dentures
Dentures are complete sets of artificial teeth that are removable. They can be used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, or they can be used to replace just a few missing teeth.
As you can see, there are several options available to you if you are missing one or more teeth. Be sure to discuss all of your options with your dentist before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
Bridges are a popular dental treatment for replacing missing teeth, and with proper care, they can last for many years. But they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about dental bridges, be sure to consult our professional team at Byford Smiles! You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 08 9532 0247 or by booking a consultation online.
FAQs
The first step in the dental bridge procedure is an initial consultation with your dentist. If you are eligible for the procedure, we file down the two teeth on either side of the gap. This creates room for the placement of dental crowns, which will support the bridge. Next, an impression or mould of your natural teeth is taken so that the bridge can be custom-made to fit your mouth. Afterwards, a temporary bridge is placed. This will protect the prepared teeth while your new dental bridge is being made. Once the bridge is ready, it will be placed over the filed-down teeth and cemented into place. The final step is to check your bite and make any necessary adjustments. Once everything is perfect, your new dental bridge will be polished, and you’ll be all set!
Missing teeth can cause a number of problems. They can make it difficult to chew properly, which can lead to digestive problems and can increase your likelihood of getting tooth decay and gum disease. They can also cause the other teeth in your mouth to shift out of place, leading to an uneven bite and increased risk of bone loss in your jaw. In addition, missing teeth can affect your speech and make you self-conscious about your smile. Replacing missing teeth is important for both your oral health and your overall well-being.
Dental bridges are typically recommended for patients who have lost one or more teeth. To be a good candidate for a dental bridge, you must have healthy teeth and gums and enough bone to support the implanted teeth. You may choose to undergo bone grafting in order to be eligible for dental bridges.
You must also be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups. Plus, you should be prepared to make some lifestyle changes, such as avoiding hard foods and chewing gum. If you are considering a dental bridge, talk to your dentist about whether you are a good candidate.
The cost of dental bridges can vary depending on the type of bridge you choose, the materials used, and the complexity of your procedure. In general, however, dental bridges typically cost between $500 and $5,000.
