What You Should Know About Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are widely used and are seen as an effective method of tooth replacement. Most people suffering from tooth loss due to injury or any other causes can opt for this method, as it is not just a corrective dental process but will also contribute to the overall oral health. Learning about dental bridges will enable you to determine if this is a treatment option that you can go for.
What is a dental bridge?
Just like the name suggests, this is a type of 'bridge' that will help in filling gaps occasioned by missing teeth in your mouth. In essence, it is a prosthesis that joins an artificial tooth to adjacent teeth.
What types are there?
There many types of dental bridges that one can choose from:
- Implant supported bridges
- Maryland bridges
- Cantilever bridges
- Traditional or fixed bridges
What is the procedure for having dental bridges?
The procedure is pain-free and relatively comfortable. First, an x-ray will be performed together with a visual examination to determine how healthy the adjoining teeth are, as they will have to support the bridge. After being sure of what support will be provided, the dentist will decide on the best dental bridge that fits.
The dentist will then use a local anaesthesia such as Novocain to numb the area surrounding the missing teeth to prevent you from feeling any pain during the procedure. Crowns that will support the artificial tooth are then placed. The artificial teeth are made to resemble the other teeth in your dental collection and are placed in the gap and supported by the crowns on the adjacent teeth.
What are the benefits?
- There are several benefits of dental bridges, some of which are highlighted below:
- They last for long, mostly 10 to 15 years before they can be replaced
- They are a non-removal option which means you do not have to remove while eating or cleaning
- They strengthen the surrounding teeth
- They restore your smile
- They are an alternative to implants which are costlier
In summary, you will realise that having dental bridges is an excellent alternative to many other tooth replacement procedures. It is relatively an easy process that is to a large extent, pain-free. Maintenance is also effortless as you will apply the same care you have for regular teeth. Floss and brush daily to keep away decay.
Speak with a local dentist to learn more about dental bridges.
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