Tooth loss presents a variety of challenges. The absence of teeth in the mouth increases the risks of shifting and misalignment among remaining teeth, not to mention gum infection, and loss of jawbone density.
Tooth loss can also be severely detrimental to the aesthetics of a person's smile. Though this concern is more cosmetic than structural, we must not discount the value of a full radiant smile on both a person's self-confidence as well as the perceptions of those around them.
Today we're discussing dental bridges, their care, and their role in restoring form and function to the mouth and luster to the smile.
What Are Dental Bridges and How Can They Help?
A dental bridge is a long-term tooth replacement solution consisting of one or more artificial teeth, typically made of porcelain or ceramic. Dental bridges are anchored to dental crowns or implants (or "abutments") on either side of a site(s) of tooth loss and serve to "bridge the gap," restoring the form and function of a person's mouth and the aesthetics of their smile. With proper care, a dental bridge can last for seven years or more.
How to Care for Dental Bridges in Lincoln
In many ways, caring for a dental bridge isn't dramatically different from caring for natural teeth. Patients with bridges are instructed to:
- Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between the bridge and natural teeth with floss or interdental brushes
- Avoid tobacco products
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Regularly attend checkups with a dentist
Can Anyone Get a Dental Bridge?
Unfortunately, dental bridges are not right for everyone. To be an appropriate candidate for a dental bridge, a person must have sufficiently healthy gums and adjacent teeth to support the bridge structure. Additionally, it's vital that candidates for dental bridges have a strong commitment to good oral hygiene.
Ultimately, though, only a thorough examination by a dentist can definitively determine if a person is a suitable candidate for dental bridges.
Contact Our Lincoln Dental Offices Today
If you're in the Lincoln area and would like to learn more about dental bridges as a long-term tooth replacement solution, contact the team at Antelope Creek Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.