A dental bridge is basically a false tooth placed in between your existing teeth. It is held in place by supporting abutment teeth on either side of the gap your dentist will be closing. There are a number of different materials used in bridges, or pontics as they are technically called. Most people opt for porcelain bridges to blend in with their natural existing teeth. Others want something that will stand out and may choose bridges made of gold.
If you think you may need dental bridges, talk to one of the dentists are Ace Dental to discuss your options.
How Are Bridges Fitted?
Dental bridges are not very complicated to have fitted, but you may need to make a few visits. The first visit involves your dentist checking your teeth and taking care of any issues such as cavities.
Your dentist will then reshape your teeth on either side of the gap in preparation for the bridge. These teeth will be fitted with a crown so that the bridge can be anchored down. Your dentist will then take an impression of your teeth and send it off to the lab for the bridge to be made making sure the correct shade is taken to match your existing teeth.
While your bridge is being made, your dentist may fit you with a temporary bridge to ensure the integrity of the anchor teeth is maintained. During your final visit, your dentist will check to make sure the bridge fits perfectly before cementing the bridge into place.
How Many Teeth Can A Bridge Replace?
A bridge can be used to replace a number of teeth. It is not unheard of to have two to four teeth replaced by a single bridge. Your dentist just needs to ensure that there are enough of your natural teeth to support the bridge. In cases where more teeth need to be replaced, a different treatment, such as implants, may need to be considered.
Will A Bridge Damage Your Teeth?
There may be some minimal damage to your anchor teeth when you have them prepared for dental bridges. This is because the surface of your anchor teeth needs to be scraped to make the surface rough enough to more easily adhere to the bonding agents.
What Can You Expect?
We’ve discussed the process of having dental bridges fitted, but what else can you expect from this treatment? Dental bridges are a great way to correct a gap between your teeth and replace one or two teeth. If more than a couple of teeth need to be replaced, your dentist may recommend dental implants for a more durable and long-lasting solution.
Dental bridges are perfect for people who have strong teeth. However, they may not be suitable for those with weak or brittle teeth. It’s also important to have an adequate existing oral hygiene routine in place before considering dental bridges.
Once bridges have been fitted, you may need to ramp up your oral hygiene. With the right care, your dental bridges can last ages, although it is recommended that you have them checked by your dentist to from time to time to ensure they stay firmly in place.
If you have a dental bridge and are concerned about the level of hygiene, you should invest in an oral irrigator. This enables you to use a little bit of water pressure to flush out those food particles and keep your teeth, including bridges, as clean as possible.
Call on 020 8530 4230 to find out how our team can help you improve your smile.
