What is a Bridge?
A Bridge is a solution for a missing tooth or teeth. Dental bridges bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. The crown replacing the missing tooth is joined to crowns made to fit over the adjacent teeth. In this way, the bridge, made up of three crowns is supported by the teeth either side of the gap. Sometimes more than one missing tooth can be replaced in this way.
What are the benefits of Dental Bridges?
Bridges can:
- Restore your smile
- Restore the ability to properly chew and speak
- Maintain the shape of your face
- Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
- Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
How long do Dental Bridges last?
Dental bridges can last five to 15 years and even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular checkups, it is not unusual for the life span of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years.
Will it be difficult to eat with a Dental Bridge?
Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge should actually make eating easier. Until you become accustomed to the bridge, eat soft foods that have been cut into small pieces.
How do I care for a Bridge?
Dental bridges require even more regular and consistent home and professional dental care than your natural teeth do to prevent decay at the tooth-dental bridge junction. This is because the area beneath the dental bridge must be cleaned.
Brushing twice a day and flossing daily helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate how to properly brush and floss teeth. Keeping a regular cleaning schedule will help diagnose problems at an early stage when treatment has a better prognosis. Selecting a balanced diet for proper nutrition is also important.