Losing an adult tooth does not include the same excitement that it did in childhood. When you lose a baby tooth, there is another tooth ready to fill the gap. When you lose an adult tooth, you are left with a gaping hole. After the loss of a permanent tooth, it is important to seek dental intervention as soon as possible. While it may not seem like a significant issue, missing teeth can affect basic functions such as our ability to bite, chew, and speak. It can also adversely affect oral health by causing the remaining teeth to shift.
Dental bridges stand as one of the tried and true ways to restore the smile after teeth have been loss. Bridges give patients the full functionality of biting and chewing and restore the appearance of the smile. The most common type of bridge, a fixed bridge, can provide long lasting beauty and functionality.
Fixed dental bridges are composed of two crowns that fit over teeth adjacent to the gap. There is an artificial tooth in the middle, the pontic, which fills in the gap from the lost tooth. The crowns act as anchors and provide stability and support for the restoration. Dental bridges are placed in two separate appointments.
Taking care of your dental bridge is very similar to taking care of natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing is necessary to keep the area free of bacteria. Because a bridge does sit on top of the gums, patients need to use a specialized flossing tool to ensure the area underneath the pontic is properly cleaned. We are happy to answer any questions you have about caring for your bridge.
With proper care, dental bridges can last for decades or longer. Losing teeth does not have to cause you to lose your smile. Dental bridges are an affordable and effective way to restore those missing teeth and regain your confidence. If you are in the Redlands area, call Pure Gold Dental today to learn more about dental bridges and the other restorative services that we provide in office.