Top Reasons Why You Should Consider Getting a Dental Bridge
22.11.2023
Missing teeth will not only damage your confidence, but they can also impact your oral health and wider health. Missing teeth can cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of alignment or become loose in their socket.
Gaps in your smile can also cause you to avoid certain foods or stop chewing with one side of your mouth, resulting in facial asymmetry.
If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can be a transformative solution. Dental bridges offer numerous advantages, addressing both cosmetic and functional concerns. In this article, we will explore the top reasons why you should consider getting a dental bridge to restore your smile.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth with a crown on either side. The crowns attach to the surrounding healthy teeth and provide support for the restoration. The force of your bite is shared across the adjoining teeth, restoring function to your bite.
The adjoining crowns also help to provide support to surrounding teeth. If the surrounding teeth are very healthy, the prosthetic tooth may be held in place with metal wings that are concealed on the backs of the teeth.
Aesthetic benefits
One of the primary reasons individuals opt for dental bridges is the restoration of their smile's natural appearance. The bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth, creating a seamless and harmonious look.
The prosthetic teeth in the bridge are carefully crafted to match the colour, shape, and size of the surrounding natural teeth, providing a natural and attractive smile.
Improved chewing and speech
Missing teeth can significantly impact your ability to chew food properly and articulate words. A dental bridge restores the functionality of your bite, allowing you to enjoy a varied and nutritious diet.
A bridge may also aid with clear speech, eliminating challenges that may arise due to gaps in your dental structure. If you find you favour one side of your mouth to chew because of missing teeth, a dental bridge could help to address this issue.
Protects surrounding and opposite teeth
When a tooth is lost, the adjacent teeth may gradually shift into the empty space, leading to misalignment and bite issues. The opposite teeth can also suffer due to a lack of support in the bite. A dental bridge helps maintain the proper alignment of teeth, preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting and compromising your overall dental health.
Distribution of bite force
Gaps in the dental arch can cause an uneven distribution of bite force, placing excessive pressure on the remaining natural teeth. A dental bridge ensures that the bite force is distributed evenly across the dental arch, preventing the overloading of specific teeth and reducing the risk of further tooth damage.
Maintains facial structure
Missing teeth can contribute to changes in facial structure over time. The loss of tooth roots can lead to bone resorption in the jaw, resulting in a sunken appearance. A dental bridge helps preserve the natural contours of the face by providing support to the underlying jawbone. A missing tooth can also cause you to favour chewing on one side, which may lead to asymmetry in your facial muscles.
Quick and non-invasive procedure
Compared to some other tooth replacement options, getting a dental bridge is a relatively quick and non-invasive procedure. The bridge is custom-made to fit your dental anatomy, and the placement typically involves minimal discomfort and recovery time.
One alternative to closing a gap in your smile would be orthodontics, but you can expect to wait between 6-24 months to complete the treatment.
Long-lasting solution
With proper care and maintenance, dental bridges can be a long-lasting tooth replacement solution. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices help ensure the longevity of the bridge and contribute to your overall oral health.
How long your dental bridge lasts will all depend on how well you care for it and how you use it. The quality of the materials and the skill of the dentist placing the bridge will also have a significant impact on the lifespan of your bridge. In general, you can expect it to last anywhere from 5-15 years.
Conclusion
A dental bridge is a versatile and effective solution for individuals seeking to restore both the form and function of their smile. Whether you have a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, a dental bridge offers a comprehensive and aesthetic solution.
Consult with your dentist to determine if a dental bridge is the right option for you, and take the first step toward reclaiming a confident and complete smile. During your consultation, you’ll have a chance to ask questions and learn more about what you can expect at every stage of the treatment journey.