What is a dental Bridge?

In addition to being ugly, missing teeth can lead to further periodontal and dental issues in the future. A dental bridge is a successful treatment option that can restore the appearance and functionality of your teeth by efficiently replacing a single tooth or several missing teeth.

Dental bridges Smithfield VA function by bonding two crowns to neighboring, healthy teeth that are next to a gap. Between the crowns is where a pontic, or fake tooth, is supported. The bridge will fit in perfectly with your smile, mirroring the shade and appearance of your natural teeth.

What Sets a Bridge Apart from Other Choices?

Bridges are cemented permanently to your natural teeth, in contrast to partial dentures, which fit over your gums and are intended to be taken out. A bridge requires the same maintenance as your natural teeth; it cannot be taken out for cleaning. Bridges are not the same as dental implants. Implants are similarly permanent, however they are held in place by a titanium device drilled straight into the jaw bone, as opposed to being affixed to nearby teeth.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

For many individuals, dental bridges are an excellent alternative because of their numerous advantages.

Compared to dentures, more comfortable and secure

Temporary sealant is used to anchor partial dentures to the gums, just like complete dentures do. This could be unsettling and disorganized. Compared to solutions that are permanently attached, including bridges and implants, the seal is not as secure. (Bonus: bridges do not need to be taken out and washed like dentures; instead, they may be cleaned in the same manner as your natural teeth).

Quicker Than Implants

Typically, dental bridges Smithfield VA just require two sessions spaced quite closely apart. Because the jaw must recover around the implant for a predetermined amount of time before the permanent crown can be installed, implants may take longer to complete.

Price

Initially, bridges are less costly than implants. Furthermore, insurance typically pays for bridges but it is less likely to do so for implants.

Able to Replace Several Teeth

A bridge might be a better option than implants if you are missing several teeth in a row. It can get costly and inconvenient to drill each implant into the jaw separately. A bridge can replace one or more lost teeth.

An Alternative if Your Bone Health Is Inadequate

For Implants to Be Secured, Your Jaw Bone Structure Must Be Adequate. Although it could be extensive and expensive, bone grafting might be an option. For certain patients, a bridge may be a preferable alternative because it attaches to the patient's existing teeth rather than the bone beneath.

Drawbacks of Dental Bridges

You should think about the possible disadvantages of selecting a bridge.

Durability

Dental implants have a longer lifespan than dental bridges Smithfield VA. Implants can last up to 15 years, although most bridges only last 5 to 10 years.

Surrounding teeth

In order to place a surrounding teeth bridge, the teeth must be in good health. Because crowns must be placed over certain teeth, this procedure may also harm those teeth. Dentures are affixed to the gums using temporary adhesive, whereas implants are fixed to the jaw and do not harm the other teeth.

Possibility of Decay

An increased risk of decay and cavities in nearby teeth might result from a lost tooth. Furthermore, the void may lead to dental misalignment and deteriorate the integrity of the underlying bone. A bridge may still have a little higher risk of decay than implants, even though it will assist keep teeth from slipping into the gap. Naturally, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and scheduling routine dental exams reduce this risk.

Are You a Good Fit for a Bridge?

Make an appointment with Elite Dental & Denture to discuss whether a dental bridge is the right course of action for you.

A Bridge to a Beautiful Smile: Exploring Dental Bridge Options