Dental Bridge: Restoring Your Smile And Dental Function

Introduction

A confident smile and general well-being depend on maintaining good oral health. Unfortunately, tooth loss is a common dental problem that can impact your mouth’s aesthetic appearance and functionality. Dental bridges have long been a reliable solution for restoring missing teeth, providing patients an effective way to regain their smiles, improve their oral health, and enhance their quality of life. We will go into the world of dental bridges in this post, looking at their types, advantages, and how to get one. 

Understanding Dental Bridges

A dental bridge service is a prosthetic that spans the space left by lost teeth to replace one or more of them. It is made up of one or more false teeth (pontics) that are secured in place by dental crowns or abutments that are affixed to the adjacent teeth. Depending on the needs and preferences of the individual, dental bridges can be manufactured from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys.

Types Of Dental Bridges

Traditional Dental Bridges

Traditional bridges, the most popular style, include crowning the teeth on either side of the gap and securing an artificial tooth or teeth in the middle. The primary material for these bridges is porcelain fused with metal or ceramic, which offers a realistic appearance and dependable strength.

Cantilever Bridges

When there is just one adjacent tooth accessible to support the pontic, this form of bridge is utilized. It entails setting the artificial tooth in place, which is secured to a single neighboring tooth to provide functionality and stability.

Maryland Bridges

Maryland bridges, often referred to as resin-bonded bridges, are a great option for replacing missing front teeth. 

Restored Aesthetics

Dental bridges are an efficient way to bridge the spaces created by lost teeth, restoring your smile and enhancing your facial features. 

Enhanced Dental Function

Missing teeth can hamper your ability to bite and chew properly, impacting your overall oral function. Dental bridge services restore proper biting and chewing capabilities, allowing you to enjoy a varied diet and maintain proper nutrition.

Speech Improvement

Dental bridges close these gaps, enabling clear speech and restoring confidence in communication.

Preventing Dental Problems

When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth can shift or rotate, leading to misalignment and potential oral health issues. 

The Dental Bridge Procedure

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the dental bridge procedure:

Initial consultation

The first step is to visit a dentist for an initial consultation. The dentist will examine your oral health, assess the condition of your teeth, and determine if a dental bridge is the right treatment option for you.

Tooth preparation

If you are a suitable candidate for a dental bridge, the next step is to prepare the adjacent teeth that will support the bridge. The dentist will remove a portion of the enamel from these teeth to make room for the dental crowns that  placed over them. In some cases, dental implants  used as support if the adjacent teeth are not healthy or strong enough.

Impression

After tooth preparation, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth and the gap. This impression will serve as a mold for creating the dental bridge. 

Bridge placement

Once the dental bridge is ready, you will return to the dentist for the final bridge placement. The dentist will remove the temporary bridge, clean the prepared teeth, and check the fit and appearance of the new bridge. Adjustments and final touches: The dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit, bite, and aesthetics. This may involve trimming or reshaping the bridge or adjusting the bite relationship with the opposing teeth.

Caring For Dental Bridges

Here are some important tips for caring for dental bridges:

Brush Regularly

Brush your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Pay special attention to the areas around the bridge to remove any plaque or food particles that may accumulate.

Floss Daily

Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between the teeth and around the bridge. This helps remove plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

Use a Bridge Threader or Super Floss

If your bridge has a pontic (artificial tooth) suspended between two supporting teeth, use a bridge threader or super floss to thread the floss or dental tape underneath the pontic. This allows you to clean the area effectively.

Consider a Water Flosser

Water flossers, also known as oral irrigators, can be helpful in cleaning dental bridges. They use a stream of water to flush out debris and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas. Consult your dentist to see if a water flosser suits your situation.

Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash

Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria and prevent gum problems. Choose a mouthwash recommended by your dentist.

Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods

Certain foods can be problematic for dental bridges. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods like ice, hard candies, or chewing gum, as they can damage or dislodge the bridge.

Schedule Regular Dental Check-Ups

Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. They can monitor the condition of your dental bridge, identify any potential issues early on, and provide professional cleaning to maintain its appearance and hygiene.

Wear a Mouthguard If Needed

If you participate in contact sports or engage in activities that may pose a risk to your teeth, wear a mouthguard to protect your dental bridge and natural teeth from injury.

Tooth Bridge Costs Canada

The cost of a tooth bridge in Canada can vary depending on several factors, including the type of bridge, the number of missing teeth being replaced, the materials used, the location of the dental clinic, and the expertise of the dentist. 

To get an accurate estimate of the cost, it is best to consult with a dentist in your area. They can evaluate your situation, discuss the options, and provide an estimate based on your needs. It’s worth noting that dental insurance coverage can also influence the overall cost, as some plans may partially cover the expenses associated with dental bridges.

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