One of the most common dental procedures that general dentists offer is a dental bridge. This is a method of teeth replacement that replaces one missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. A dental bridge most notably addresses a cosmetic concern, but it may offer functional and oral health benefits as well.
It is helpful to understand what a dental bridge is and when it is recommended to determine if you should visit the general dentist for treatment. While, of course, general dentists will need to examine the missing tooth (or section of missing teeth) that may need the bridge before deciding if it is a viable option, having a general understanding of when they are recommended can help you feel more confident before the visit.
A dental bridge, also called a fixed dental bridge, is a common type of dental restoration that replaces one or several missing teeth. The restoration is a crown, which is supported by adjacent teeth on each side. A dental bridge may also be able to be supported by dental implants on each side of the bridge as well.
A general dentist may recommend a bridge if the patient has one or more missing teeth that create a cosmetic, functional, or oral health concern. While preventing teeth loss is ideal, it can happen regardless. It is often the result of less than ideal oral hygiene or infrequent visits to the general dentist, but a missing tooth (or teeth) that require a bridge may also be necessary to repair dental trauma as well, such as suffering a blow to the face during a sporting event.
A dental bridge is one of several types of teeth replacement. While general dentists often recommend a dental bridge, there may be alternatives worth considering as well. The most notable alternatives to a dental bridge are:
Some general dentists also offer implant-supported bridges, which involve supporting the bridge with dental implants rather than natural teeth with dental crowns attached to them.
After the bridge is successfully placed, the patient should come to the general dentist regularly for a check-up on the dental bridge and on the patient’s oral health in general. This allows the general dentist to detect any concerns as early as possible and prevent additional tooth loss or an early loss of the dental bridge.
Do you have one or more missing teeth you would like to replace or have not been to the general dentist in more than six months? If so, then contact our dental practice today to arrange a visit. We can conduct an oral examination and put together a treatment plan to deal with any concerns you may have related to your oral health and the appearance of your smile.
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