15 Feb When is a Dental Bridge Recommended?
Tooth loss is a problem that impacts your appearance, the foods we eat, and maybe even how we pronounce different sounds. One of the solutions used to treat tooth loss is with dental bridges.
A standard dental bridge is comprised of two anchor teeth (abutment teeth) with one or a couple of teeth in between (pontics) that are fixed (permanently attached) to restore tooth loss.
Tooth loss can occur due to trauma, decay, or disease. When periodontal disease is the reason for tooth loss, the concern for the type of bridge and how it is attached comes into question. Only healthy teeth are considered to be ideal for use as abutment teeth.
There are alternative solutions for affixing a dental bridge such as a cantilever bridge (when only one anchor tooth is available) or a Maryland bridge (made from a lightweight plastic that can be attached with metal clasps). Your dentist is always your best source for advice on how to proceed to correct missing teeth.
It is important to replace missing teeth. When tooth loss occurs, the bones that once held teeth in place will start to deteriorate. This can produce facial changes and/or a shriveled appearance where tooth loss has occurred. The placement of a bridge can help with this issue particularly if the dental bridge is placed incorporating the use of dental implants.
Restoring missing teeth using an implant supported bridge does not rely on abutment teeth. Our dentist will place dental implants in one or more areas to become the primary support for the dental bridge. The implant(s) are surgically embedded in the gums and protected over the next several months while the implant area heals and bone fuses to the implant giving it the stability needed to support the bridge.
Once healing has completed, the restoration is ready to be seated. With a traditional bridge, the abutment teeth are crowned with the pontics bridged in between. When using dental implants to support the bridge, the implanted teeth are used as the abutment teeth with the artificial teeth attached to the implants.
The crowns are tried in for a comfortable fit and correct appearance. Adjustments are likely to be needed over the next few weeks to provide the patient with optimum comfort, functionality, and appearance.
The finished product will enhance the ability to eat, speak, and smile for many years.
Call our office today at 210-616-0858 and set up a consultation to learn more about your tooth replacement options.