Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that are used to cover an area in your mouth with more than one missing teeth. The device is typically fastened on the two closest teeth to the gap. These are often covered with crowns for added support. False teeth are then attached to the bridge, filling the holes created by the loss of your natural teeth.
Holes in your smile are typically created by tooth loss due to decay or physical trauma to the mouth as a result of an accident or sports.
Filling holes in your smile is particularly important since the remaining teeth have a tendency to shift towards the gap. This can lead to more serious issues like gingivitis and temporomandibular joint disorder.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING A DENTAL BRIDGE
Getting dental bridges installed typically involves multiple visits to the dentist. The procedure starts with your dentist injecting a local anesthetic into the gum tissue next to the anchors. Next, the anchor teeth are shaped and prepared for their crowns. That ensures the crowns fit properly, which in turn makes the bond with the bridge more secure.
Once the anchor teeth have been prepared, your oral professional will make an impression of your mouth and send the details to a lab where a customized bridge will be made for you. Your dentist will provide you with a temporary bridge to cover up the gap in the meantime.
You’ll return to your dentist’s office in a few weeks when your permanent bridge is ready. It will then be carefully installed by your dentist, making sure your bite alignment remains the same.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR DENTAL BRIDGE
Dental bridges can last over 10 years if you take proper care of them. Your anchor teeth, in particular, are susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, so pay special attention to them when brushing and flossing.
You should also visit your dentist at least twice a year so that they can be examined and cleaned.