Missing teeth can change more than your looks; they can also alter how you talk, eat, and feel about yourself. Dental bridges in Okotoks, AB, are one of the most suitable ways to replace any missing teeth. These restorations are shaped to fill in the gaps left by one or more missing teeth and restore your smile as well as your confidence.
If you have been hiding that smile or avoiding certain foods because of that missing tooth, a dental bridge might be the perfect solution. Bridges help enhance the appearance of smiles; they also play an important role in maintaining the sound health and function of the mouth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that uses the natural teeth on either side of a gap to support an artificial tooth, filling in the space left by a missing one. These anchor teeth, called the abutment, are equipped with the crown, and they have false teeth or teeth in the middle of them, also known as Pontics. Dental bridges come in different types. Among the different types, traditional bridges are most widely used, while cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported bridges offer alternative options depending on your dental needs and the location of the missing tooth. Your oral hygiene, the position of your missing teeth, and your needs will all influence which working style is ideal for you.
Why Are Dental Bridges Important?
Neighbouring teeth may start to erupt into the space left by a lost tooth. This can cause issues with your bite, jaw pain, and even further tooth loss in the future. And the bone where the tooth used to be can start to recede, which can impact the appearance of your face.
That is where dental bridges near you can become convenient. A bridge maintains your teeth in their natural position and keeps other problems from arising. It also enables normal chewing and speaking, which can enhance your lifestyle.
How the Procedure Works
Getting a dental bridge usually requires two appointments. Your dentist will take impressions and reshape the teeth adjacent to the gap during the initial appointment. Your personalized bridge is created in a dental lab using these impressions.
To save your teeth in the interim, a temporary bridge could be affixed. Your permanent bridge will be fixed in place on the second visit. Your dentist will make sure the fit is just right and that your bite feels comfortable.
How to Care for a Dental Bridge
Caring for a dental bridge follows the same routine as caring for your natural teeth—brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are essential to keep it in good shape. Certain flossing tools can help you clean under the bridge to keep your gums healthy and prevent buildup. Don’t forget to use a fluoride toothpaste and rinse with mouthwash to protect the surrounding teeth. Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the bridge to prevent damage. A dental bridge can endure for five to fifteen years, or even longer, with the right maintenance. The better your oral hygiene routine, the longer your bridge is likely to last. It just takes a little extra care each day to keep your smile intact and protect your investment.
Benefits of Choosing a Dental Bridge
Here’s a quick look at what a dental bridge can do for you:
- Restore your smile and improve your appearance
- Help you chew and speak more comfortably.
- Maintain the natural shape of your face.
- Prevent other teeth from shifting out of place
- Support the health of your entire mouth.
All of these benefits work together to not only improve how you look, but also how you feel. That’s why so many people choose dental bridges as their solution for missing teeth.
Restore Your Smile with Essential Dentistry
Are you ready to move on to enjoying a full and confident smile? At Essential Dentistry, we want you to feel relaxed and looked after throughout. If you have a single tooth missing or several, we’ll work with you through your choices and offer you a solution that fits with you and your lifestyle and desires.
Book an appointment with a dentist in Okotoks, AB, today and discover how a dental bridge can transform your oral health and bring back your natural smile.