Should I Get a Dental Bridge to Replace My Lost Teeth?

Contact Us

* Fields with asterisks are required.

Should I Get a Dental Bridge to Replace My Lost Teeth?

Jul 01, 2022

After losing a tooth, we are usually left with the question of what to replace it with. There are several treatment options that one can choose from. At Franklin Dental Care, we may recommend dental bridges to those who don’t want to explore other dental procedures. Dental bridges are considered cost-effective if you are going for a more pocket-friendly treatment.

However, there are other factors one has to consider while choosing it. This includes its durability and maintenance process. By the time you are done with this article, you will have gained insight into why you should choose dental bridges as your treatment option.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges are dental prosthetics used in restoring a single or multiple subsequent missing teeth. The false tooth used in dental bridges is known as pontic. The pontic is what rests on the gap, and on both sides are crowns that are fitted on existing teeth nearby. These crowns are also known as abutments, and they support the pontic.

A variety of materials can be used to make dental bridges. Some of these materials include gold, porcelain, or composite resins. According to our dentist near you, there are three main types of dental bridges in Oakland, CA. They include:

  • Cantilever bridges are mainly used when replacing a missing tooth at the back of your mouth. A single abutment can support cantilever bridges.
  • Traditional bridges are often used when filling a gap that multiple adjacent teeth have flanked. Traditional bridges are held in position by two abutments.
  • Maryland bridges. The pontic in Maryland bridges don’t require any abutments. Instead, it is directly placed on your natural teeth by a porcelain or metal framework.

Why Choose a Dental Bridge?

Several issues come with a tooth gap. Some of these can be low self-esteem or discomfort while chewing. Missing teeth can also have an impact on ones remaining teeth. The following are some reasons you should choose a dental bridge.

Enhances a Person’s Appearance

Missing teeth can make one have self-doubt. This affects their social and professional interactions. A dental bridge will fill the tooth gap and eliminate the sunken look that comes with the gap. In addition, dental bridges improve one appearance by making their smile brighter and creating a younger-looking face.

They Keep Your Teeth Aligned

Our teeth are naturally aligned uniquely, and a tooth gap can change all that with time. Getting a replacement for your lost tooth with a dental bridge will prevent your natural teeth from shifting and changing their alignment.

It makes it Easier For One To Bite and Chew.

Having fewer teeth in your dental structure can affect how you bite and chew. Food substances quickly get stuck in the gap, and one will find themselves with the part that is furthest from it. Getting a dental bridge will restore your mouth’s function to chew and bite.

Speech Improvement

Teeth play a significant role in our speech by making sure certain sounds are heard. For example, while speaking, certain vowels will rely on the contact made between our tongues, lips, and teeth. A missing tooth can cause a speech impediment or a lisp. Our dentist in Oakland recommends our clients choose a dental bridge to restore one’s speech pronunciation.

Dental Bridges are Non-invasive

Unlike other treatment options that require surgery, dental bridges will replace your lost tooth without an incision.

Can the Teeth That Anchor a Bridge Get Cavities?

Dental bridges are not susceptible to dental cavities. However, the teeth supporting the bridge or are under the abutments are vulnerable to cavities. Tiny food particles can quickly get stuck between teeth or underneath the abutments of a poorly fitted or loose dental bridge. This can lead to tooth decay and other dental issues.

Additionally, someone with dental bridges is also at risk of getting gum diseases. Gum diseases can also cause dental complications to the teeth underneath the dental bridge. This is usually due to a lack of proper mouth hygiene.

  • To avoid all this, our dentist in Berkeley insists on brushing your teeth for not less the two minutes twice a day.
  • Ensure that you at least floss once a day and focus on the gap between your pontic and gums. This can be accomplished by using special flossing equipment recommended by your dentist.
  • And lastly, visit your dentist for dental checkups, cleanups, and examinations twice a year.

Book an Appointment

* Fields with asterisks are required.
Click to listen highlighted text!