Saturday, April 19, 2025

Dental Bridges: A Comprehensive Solution for Missing Teeth

Dental bridges are one way to replace missing teeth. They improve your appearance, make it easier to eat and may even help correct speech disorders caused by missing teeth.

During the first appointment, your dentist will give your local anesthesia and prepare your abutment teeth (the natural teeth that support the bridge). They’ll also take impressions of your mouth and create a temporary bridge.

Function

When a tooth is missing, nearby teeth can shift and move into the gap. This disrupts the bite and increases the risk of tooth decay, sensitivity, and other problems. Dental bridges Montgomery AL fill the gap to prevent movement and keep remaining natural teeth in place.

A traditional bridge is constructed using dental crowns on both ends of the gap and artificial teeth in between. The dentist prepares the abutment teeth by removing a portion of the enamel and dentin to create room for the crowns, and impressions are taken.

Once the dentist is satisfied that the bridge fits properly in the mouth, they will cement it in place. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene will help to maintain the bridge’s stability. If the bridge becomes loose, it can be easily re-cemented by the dentist. If the bridge develops cavities or gum disease, it will need to be replaced. To avoid this, the patient should refrain from biting hard objects or using the teeth as tools.

Aesthetics

Dental bridges are designed to closely resemble natural teeth in shape, size, and color. As a result, they blend seamlessly with existing teeth, restoring an attractive and symmetrical smile. The results are transformational, enhancing facial harmony and boosting self-confidence.

The dentist prepares the abutment teeth by slightly reducing their enamel surface to create a strong foundation for the bridge. He then cements the custom-made caps (pontics) onto the abutment teeth, effectively filling the gap left by missing tooth(s).

Bridges made of porcelain and zirconia are known for their strength and durability. They also offer superior aesthetics, mimicking the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth for a beautiful and seamless appearance. Traditional PFM (porcelain fused to metal) bridges are also durable and provide an ideal replacement for molars or premolars, where significant chewing forces apply. However, their metal framework can produce a dark line at the gumline and may be less aesthetically pleasing than newer materials. They also tend to be more costly than other options.

Comfort

Dental bridges Montgomery AL are very comfortable to chew, speak and eat with. They are also very strong and stable. They prevent existing teeth from shifting to fill the gap, which can cause bite problems, strain the remaining teeth and gums and make it difficult to eat or pronounce certain sounds.

A dental bridge helps stimulate jaw bone growth and maintain a healthy, full smile. Without this stimulation, the jaw can weaken and the remaining natural teeth can drift out of alignment.

Dental bridges should feel natural and comfortable as soon as the anaesthetic wears off. However, it is important to avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the bridge. Patients with dental bridges should also pay special attention to their oral hygiene routine. Regular dental checkups at Schowengerdt Family Dentistry are a great way to monitor the condition of your bridge and ensure that it is well-fitted. This will help prevent complications such as infection and gum disease.

Maintenance

Dental bridges Montgomery AL provide a highly functional solution to missing teeth, improve chewing function and prevent movement of adjacent natural teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, they can last a lifetime.

Avoid hard foods like ice cubes, raw vegetables and nuts to protect the bridge from damage. It is also important to limit staining foods, like coffee and tea, to minimize discoloration. In addition, it is recommended to use a specialized tool such as a floss threader or an interdental brush to clean underneath the dental bridge.

Regular dental cleanings and visits to the dentist address gum issues and potential problems before they escalate. It is also important to watch for signs of wear and tear on the bridge, like visible cracks or chips. If these issues are addressed early on, the lifespan of the bridge can be extended significantly. In addition, patients should seek prompt intervention if experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in the area of their dental bridge.

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