Tooth loss is a common oral health issue not only in older adults but at every stage of life. As many as 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth.[1] Depending on your specific case, a dental bridge in Albion could be the right solution to replace a missing tooth. Here’s what you should know about dental bridges and how to care for them.
Understanding Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are among the most common choices for replacing missing teeth. They restore the appearance of your smile and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap left behind by a missing tooth. With a dental bridge, you can enjoy more natural speaking and eating, improving your quality of life.
You might need a dental bridge if you’re already missing a tooth or require extraction because a tooth is too decayed for a large filling or for other reasons.
A dental bridge is one or more artificial teeth supported by surrounding natural teeth, called abutment teeth. You need two healthy teeth on each side of the gap to provide support. In most cases, you need two healthy teeth on either side of the gap to provide support, although some dental bridges only require one natural tooth. The artificial teeth are carefully customized to provide a natural-looking and beautiful smile.
During the procedure, the supporting teeth need to be treated in much the same way as a dental crown. Enamel is removed from the exterior of the teeth to provide a uniform base. After the proper preparation of the supporting teeth, an impression is taken of the area and the mold is then sent to the lab for fabrication of the custom bridge. The bridge is then bonded to those prepared teeth, providing a strong and lasting foundation. On your next appointment, the custom bridge is then bonded to the prepared abutment teeth, providing a strong and lasting foundation.
Potential Risks That Impact Dental Bridges
Certain risks come with any dental restoration. One of the most prominent risks with dental bridges is tooth decay in the abutment teeth. Plaque can accumulate underneath the crowns, potentially leading to tooth decay in an area that is difficult to brush or floss.
Gum disease is another potential issue. Small bits of food can get caught underneath the bridge. This provides energy for bacteria to grow and multiply. The bacteria can infect your gums, causing gum disease.
In some cases, bridges can negatively impact the abutment teeth. They can put additional pressure on them, causing structural problems over time. Therefore, your dental bridge may be replaced or re-cemented over time.
Some of these potential issues can lead to other options being favorable in some instances. Partial removable dentures are another option in many situations requiring a dental bridge. They also span a gap left by one or more missing teeth. Still, they rely on various clips and other methods to provide a removable attachment to supporting teeth rather than altering them permanently like a dental bridge.
Taking Proper Care of Your Dental Bridge
Once you receive a dental bridge, you must take the proper steps to protect it and your oral health. Simply keeping up with routine oral hygiene is an integral part of that. Make sure to brush and floss twice daily, for four minutes each time.
Flossing can be difficult with dental restorations. Speak with your dental professional about proper flossing techniques.
Additionally, certain habits can damage your dental bridge. Using your teeth for anything other than biting and chewing, such as opening packaging, poses a serious risk of damaging dental restoration.
Particularly sticky and hard foods can also be hard on dental bridges and should be avoided or approached with caution.
Of course, keeping up with proper dental care is essential. You should maintain routine visits to your dentist. They can identify signs of potential issues and intervene with advice or treatment before severe damage occurs to your dental bridge or oral health.
Is a Dental Bridge in Albion Right for You?
Dental restoration is highly unique to each patient. A careful assessment of your oral health and needs is necessary to determine whether a dental bridge in Albion is the right choice. You can schedule an appointment at Albion Family Dental, your trusted source for dental services in Albion, NY, to determine whether a dental bridge is the best choice to restore your smile. Call us at 585-589-9044.
Sources:
[1] https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/ACP_Talking_points_for_Missing_Teeth_1-12-15.pdf