Learn about dental bridges
Unlike removable prostheses, which can be mobilized for proper cleaning and even rest periods, bridges cannot be removed except by a dentist since they are cemented over the existing teeth or over some type of implant.
When a tooth is absent, there is a risk that there is an uncontrolled displacement of the rest of the teeth, since the neighboring teeth can move towards the empty spaces and in this way, generate alteration in the bite, which causes significant damage to the temporomandibular joint, gum disease, cosmetic damage, and even emotional disturbances. Therefore, with the placement of a bridge, it helps to restore the smile, the normal anatomy of the face is maintained, and the patient can bite, speak, and chew properly.
How do bridges work?
A bridge is a type of tooth-supported prosthesis, which means that it uses as support, the remaining teeth (abutment tooth) that the patient still has, which serve as an anchor. The replacement tooth (pontic tooth) is placed over the empty space and attached to the crowns covering the abutment teeth. The specialist recommended the material depending on the location of the missing tooth, aesthetic considerations, and cost. They can be made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain.
What is the procedure for making the Bridges?
Given that bridges use the remaining teeth as abutments, these must be previously treated, so the abutment tooth must be reduced for the adequate adjustment of the pontic tooth. The dentist or doctor must make an impression of the patient's complete teeth in order to have an exact mold and thus be able to manufacture the tooth that will replace the empty space.
This impression mold is taken to a laboratory, where the bridge will be manufactured and where the color of the patient's teeth will also be taken into account and in this way, the new dental piece is made as similar as possible to the original teeth. It is likely that while the pontic tooth is being fabricated, the patient will temporarily have a temporary removable bridge that will later be replaced by the permanent fixed bridge.
What precautions should be taken with dental bridges?
The most important thing is to maintain optimal oral hygiene, given by proper tooth brushing, which should be at least 2 or 3 times a day, with a fluoride-rich toothpaste, gently but firmly, as well as the use of dental floss in the space between each tooth to remove food debris that may lodge there and supplement with the use of mouthwash.
It is also recommended that the patient exercise caution when chewing hard foods such as ice and any other hard food that may compromise the structure of the bridge, so it is recommended that such foods be avoided.
It is important to consult your dentist regularly and, if possible, perform oral cleanings at least once a year.
Are You Seeking a dental bridge in Barrie? At CLINIC NAME, we are proud to be able to offer state of the art dental solutions. Book your consultation at our Barrie location today to learn more.