A general dentistry office provides many important services, including replacing missing teeth. Many Americans have multiple decayed or missing teeth. But finding the ideal replacement is vital for a beautiful and healthy smile. One common option is a dental bridge.
A bridge is a dental restoration that is usually used to fill the space where one or several teeth are missing. A patient who is considering getting a dental bridge should get the facts about the restorations. Knowing how they help and when a dentist may recommend them can be beneficial. Here are some frequently asked questions about dental bridges.
A general dentistry office always recommends the replacement of missing teeth to avoid the consequences. Teeth are supposed to work together. When a person loses a tooth, the neighboring teeth may end up tilting or drifting into the empty space left by the lost tooth. The teeth in the opposite jaw often also shift up or down toward the empty space. This can cause a myriad of problems.
It can affect the bite, place excess stress on the teeth as well as the jaw joints, and even cause pain. It will also make it difficult to clean the teeth. This will increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The bone may also shrink when a tooth is missing. This may end up changing the way the jawbone supports the cheeks and lips. And over time, this can make someone’s face look different.
Dental bridges can be used by dentists to fill the gap left by either one or more teeth. They can help restore the smile and maintain the shape of a patient’s face. They can also restore someone’s ability to chew and speak properly. By replacing lost teeth, bridges help to properly distribute forces in the bite. Bridges also prevent the remaining teeth from slowly drifting out of position.
The main types of dental bridges are traditional, Maryland, cantilever, and implant-supported. Traditional bridges can help when natural teeth surround a gap or missing tooth on both sides. It consists of two or more dental crowns and a filler or false tooth. The number of false teeth needed will depend on the number of lost teeth that are being replaced.
Maryland bridges are often suitable for replacing missing teeth at the front of the mouth. Metal or porcelain bands are often used to bind the replacement tooth to the back of adjacent natural teeth. The good thing with this option is that it is not necessary to remove the enamel of the adjacent teeth. The bridge does not have to be held in place by dental crowns.
A dental bridge is a great choice for people missing either one or more teeth. A general dentistry office may recommend different types of bridges depending on your needs. Contact your dentist today to find out if dental bridges may be right for you. Make sure you ask any questions that you may have about them.
Request an appointment here: https://www.oaktreefamilydental.com or call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 763-5239 for an appointment in our McLean office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Having dental implants can correct tooth loss, which is the primary reason for getting these dental replacements. Other reasons for getting them may determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment. Knowing if you are a good candidate for dental implants can help you prepare well for your next appointments. Here are the…
Invisalign® clear aligners are a great dental alternative to more traditional teeth-straightening methods such as braces. Many patients find them easier to handle, less painful, less time-consuming, and less embarrassing than having a mouth full of metal. The trick is finding the right dentist who can provide you with optimal clear alignment treatment.To understand what…
Those missing teeth and seeking a way to restore their smile should consider dental implants. Dentists and their patients are discovering the many benefits of this tooth-replacement over other options, such as dentures and bridges. If you are missing one or more teeth like so many adults, dental implants offer a way to restore your…
Dental implants are a popular and effective treatment option for missing teeth. However, it can be overwhelming to learn about the details of the entire process. In addition, it is normal to have questions about the procedure. This article will review the most commonly asked questions and help you determine if this procedure may be…
Having dental implants can correct tooth loss, which is the primary reason for getting these dental replacements. Other reasons for getting them may determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment. Knowing if you are a good candidate for dental implants can help you prepare well for your next appointments. Here are the…
Invisalign® clear aligners are a great dental alternative to more traditional teeth-straightening methods such as braces. Many patients find them easier to handle, less painful, less time-consuming, and less embarrassing than having a mouth full of metal. The trick is finding the right dentist who can provide you with optimal clear alignment treatment.To understand what…