A dental bridge is a permanent item that replaces missing teeth and restores your smile and chewing ability. It bridges the gap where teeth are missing, with natural teeth or implants on either side. This permanent item not only enhances chewing performance, but it also promotes dental health by keeping remaining teeth from moving.
The objective of employing a dental bridge Bushwick goes beyond functional benefits; it is vital for maintaining the general structure of the mouth, preserving facial form, and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridges
These include placing a crown or implant on each side of the missing tooth, with a pontic (or prosthetic tooth) in the middle. This is the most frequent form of bridge used in tooth replacement procedures;
- Cantilever bridges
These are used when neighboring teeth exist on just one side of the lost tooth or teeth. These simply need one natural tooth next to the gap;
- Maryland bridges
Such bridges are often made of a pontic supported by a metal or porcelain framework. This framework is attached to the backs of two neighboring teeth, making it less invasive because crowns are not required for those teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges
They rely on dental implants instead of crowns or frames. Each lost tooth is replaced with an implant, which holds the bridge in place. This alternative offers excellent stability and feels more like genuine teeth.
How Much Do Dental Bridges Cost?
The cost of a dental bridge varies based on a number of factors, including the style of bridge you select and the intricacy of your case. It is critical to explore these choices with your dentist to fully understand the financial implications without insurance coverage. Keep in mind that, while some dental insurance policies cover a percentage of the cost of tooth replacement procedures such as bridges, not all plans are the same.
Why Should You Consider Getting a Dental Bridge?
- It maintains the shape of your face;
- It restores the ability to chew properly;
- It prevents the remaining teeth from moving out of place;
- It provides the sensation of having your natural teeth back;
- It provides a permanent remedy for missing teeth.
Potential Risks and Complications
- Damage to healthy teeth around the bridge;
- Altering the night alignment;
- Tooth decay;
- Gum disease.
What to Expect During a Dental Bridge Procedure
First, your dentist will prepare the teeth near the gap. This entails modifying these teeth by removing a part of the enamel to make way for a dental crown that will support the bridge. Next, imprints of your teeth are taken, which will be used as a model by a dental lab to create a dental bridge, pontic (prosthetic tooth), and crown.
Your dentist may put a temporary bridge to cover the exposed teeth and gums while your permanent bridge is being constructed. Once your custom-made dental bridge is complete, you will return for another session to have the temporary bridge removed. The replacement bridge is then carefully adjusted and installed to provide a good fit and comfort.
Finally, if everything looks perfect, it is cemented into place, signaling the end of your single tooth replacement or missing tooth repair using a fixed dental device.
Recovery and Aftercare
After finishing the dental bridge treatment, you will begin your path to complete recovery. Here are some things to do for seamless aftercare:
- Brush and floss around our new dental bridge on a daily basis to keep it clean. This helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease;
- Avoid chewing hard items on the dental bridge region for a few days to allow it to settle correctly;
- Visit your dentist on a regular basis to guarantee the health of the bridge and the surrounding teeth;
- Keep an eye out for signs of pain or any discomfort.
Taking these actions guarantees that your oral health remains intact and that your new dental bridge lasts as long as possible while maintaining excellent chewing ability.