Why a Dental Bridge Is a Good Dental Restoration Option

When teeth are broken or missing because of decay or an accident, dental restoration procedures can offer help and hope. Along with crowns and veneers, dental bridges can help repair or replace unsightly teeth or gaps in a smile, restoring self-confidence.

What is a dental restoration used for?

Natural teeth are strong and with care they should last a lifetime. Unfortunately, life happens. Certain medications or illnesses can cause staining or the teeth to become brittle. Accidents involving the jaw and face can break teeth or jar them loose. Chewing ice or hard candies can cause damage and tooth loss. Improper or irregular hygiene practices can also contribute to infection or cavities. Even if everything is done right, a patient may end up with a smile that reveals gaps or broken teeth.

What calls for the placement of a bridge?

In some cases a filling or crown is adequate, but dental bridges, made of multiple pontics, are a good option for teeth unstably rooted or damaged enough to require extraction. When a tooth gets knocked loose and cannot be replaced or an abscess required the pulling of a tooth, it not only destroys the look of one’s smile but can also compromise oral health and function. Bridges can provide dental restoration to lose teeth.

What are the advantages of using a dental bridge?

Molar bridges are made of a hard metal base with a porcelain overlay, making it possible to grind and chew meats and tougher foods. Other bridges are made completely of porcelain and offer a natural appearance next to the other teeth. Aside from strength, there are several reasons a patient may consider getting a bridge:

• Bridges are permanent fixtures as long as the teeth on each side are sound.
• Bridges are sturdy and function just as natural teeth would.
• This option can replace from three to six teeth in a single unit.
• The color is matched to surrounding teeth for a natural appearance.
• In many cases, a bridge is a viable alternative wearing dentures.

How is a dental bridge attached?

In the case of molars and often other teeth, it is necessary to have a sound and solid tooth on each end of the bridge to fasten it in place. These anchor teeth, as they are called, are ground down to the level of the gums and have a special cap put in place. The prepared bridge is then put into position and affixed to the anchor teeth. As long as the anchor teeth remain healthy and solid, the bridge is permanent.

For certain other teeth, a removable bridge may be created. This type of bridge is made to fit snugly into place against the gums and between existing teeth. Removable bridges may need to be taken out when enjoying such things as raw carrots in order to protect them from breakage and prevent accidental swallowing.

Conclusion

One or more bridges can help create a more complete and healthier-looking smile. Using this option as part of a dental restoration process can help restore the ability to eat, speak and smile more naturally.

Are you considering dental restoration in the Phoenix area? Get more information at https://familydentistphoenix.com.