13 Jul Dental Bridges: A Great Tooth Replacement Solution
Even though teeth are meant to last a lifetime, oral health conditions can cause teeth to fail. Whether a facial injury has displaced teeth, or gum disease has caused tooth loss, there are options for restoring your appearance and oral function. It is important to replace missing teeth so that you can eat a balanced diet and prevent existing teeth from shifting into empty tooth sockets. Additionally, restoring an incomplete smile is very important to your mental well-being. Patients with tooth loss have a high risk for developing depression and social anxiety. This is because tooth loss has profound effects on a person’s self-confidence and self-image. One affordable and effective method for replacing lost teeth is by using dental bridges. These custom-made replacement teeth fill in the gaps of an incomplete smile as well as restore oral function.
How Dental Bridges Work
Dental bridges are prosthetics constructed from crowns. A crown is made in a dental laboratory by technicians who work with very specific measurements. This means that a crown will complement existing teeth and the size and shape of one’s mouth. To replace lost teeth, crowns are connected in a bridge, which is then attached to existing biological teeth to close the gap between lost teeth. A bridge can replace up to four teeth in a row. By filling in the visible structures of missing teeth, patients can enjoy a restored smile that is fully functional as well. Bridges are very durable and allow a patient to eat a variety of foods—including foods that are difficult to chew. Many patients with bridges prefer these replacement teeth to partial dentures because bridges are permanent. Patients will not have to remove their prosthetics for cleaning or sleeping.
Those receiving bridges have options when it comes to the materials that make up a bridge. For affordability or durability, some may choose metal alloys—especially if the bridge will be located in an inconspicuous area of the mouth. Others who prefer a more natural appearance will likely prefer bridges constructed from porcelain.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with our dentist. Call Aesthetic Dental Partners at 210-616-0858 today to reserve a consultation.