Dental Bridge is a dental restoration option that helps restore your oral health and smile. It is a prosthetics device that fills the gap formed due to the missing teeth, using adjacent teeth as anchors. If you are considering having a Tooth Bridge for your missing teeth, you first need to understand dental bridges in detail.
As dental professionals, we understand the patient’s concerns and have shared the few essential things one should know before dental bridge treatment.
- Diverse dental bridge types
There are several kinds of options available for Tooth Bridge Worcester MA. Hence, knowing the suitable options available before making an informed decision is essential. The most common types of dental bridges are as follows.
- Traditional Bridges
They are the common dental bridge type. It involves creating a dental implant or crown for a tooth on either side of the missing tooth, with a pontic in between.
- Cantilever Bridges
This type of bridge is used when adjacent teeth are available on one side of the missing tooth. Cantilever bridges are recommended for specific dental cases.
- Maryland Bridges
They are also known as resin-bonded bridges. Maryland Bridges are made with metal or porcelain framework to hold the pontic in place. This type of bridge is a conservative option as they don’t require significant alteration of adjacent teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges
They are supported and secured with dental implants instead of adjacent teeth. They provide a stable and long-lasting solution, especially when multiple teeth are missing.
Every type of dental bridge is unique. You can approach your dentist to determine the suitable one to understand your dental health conditions.
- The procedure of dental implants
Before undergoing the dental implant procedure, it is essential to be well aware of the steps involved in the treatment. The treatment involves multiple visits to the dentist.
- Initial Consultation
The dentist will examine your oral health during your initial visit to the dental clinic. They will discuss your preferences and options and will create a treatment plan.
- Tooth preparation
While having traditional bridges, the adjacent teeth are required to be prepared. The dentist removes the tooth enamel portion to accommodate the crown that helps hold the bridge in place.
- Teeth Impressions
The dentist will take teeth impressions to create tailor-made bridges and crowns. The impressions taken are sent to the laboratory for designing the dental bridge and crown.
- Temporary Bridge
While the permanent bridge is designed and fabricated, the dentist will provide you with a temporary dental bridge. It helps to protect the exposed teeth and gums.
- Placing the dental bridge
You must visit the dental clinic once the permanent dental bridge is ready. The dentist will place the dental bridge by removing the temporary one. They will ensure that it fits appropriately by making the necessary adjustments.
- Final Placements
After confirming the fit and appearance of the dental bridge, the dentist permanently cements it in place.
- Benefits and Drawbacks
Before undergoing a dental bridge, it is essential to understand its pros and cons.
Benefits
- Restores Appearance
Dental bridges help to improve your oral aesthetics by filling the gaps in the teeth arch caused by missing teeth.
- Improves Functionality
It becomes difficult to chew and speak properly when having missing teeth. Dental bridges can restore functions effectively.
- Prevents Shifting of Teeth
A gap created due to missing teeth can shift to the adjacent teeth, leading to teeth alignment problems. Placing dental bridges prevents the shifting of teeth.
Drawbacks
- Adjacent tooth alteration
The portion of tooth enamel removed from the adjacent teeth for traditional dental bridges can weaken the teeth over time.
- Potential for Decay
After placing the dental bridges, cleaning under and around the bridges may become challenging. This can increase the risk of decay and gum disease.
- Limited Lifespan
While dental bridges are durable, they may require replacement after a certain number of years.
- Maintenance and Care
Taking proper maintenance and care is crucial to increase the lifespan of your dental bridge. You can follow the tips below.
- Oral Hygiene
Regularly brush and floss to keep your dental bridges and natural teeth clean.
- Visit the dental clinic regularly
Schedule timely dental check-ups with the dentist to ensure the bridge is in good condition and your oral health is optimal.
- Avoid hard foods
Avoid hard or sticky food that could damage your dental bridges or pull them out of place.
- Cost Considerations
The cost of the dental bridge varies depending on factors such as types, materials used, and location. You can cover the cost portion with dental insurance. Also, consider the long-term costs of dental bridges.
By understanding the factors, you can make an informed decision about having dental bridges. If you are looking to have a dental bridge in Worcester MA, you can consider Common Park Dental. We offer various dental services that include dental bridges. Our team determines your overall health and recommends suitable treatment for your dental concerns. We ensure to understand and help you to meet your dental goals and achieve a beautiful smile.
Get in touch with us to know whether you are the right fit for dental bridges!