If you’re one of the 120 million Americans missing one or more teeth, you may want to consider a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a set of permanent false teeth that “bridge” the gap between your existing teeth left by your missing tooth or teeth.
At Fresh Dental Care, with three locations in Houston, Texas, getting a dental bridge usually entails at least two visits. At the first visit, one of our skilled dentists prepares the teeth that will secure the bridge on both sides. These “abutment” teeth are fitted for crowns. We take impressions of these teeth as well as for your dental bridge. Before you leave the first visit, you’re fitted with a temporary bridge.
At the second visit, your permanent bridge is placed and secured. It may take some time, and maybe a few additional visits and adjustments, to get used to your new dental appliance. After the fit is perfect, we cement the appliance into your mouth. It should last for several years. Not sure if you should get a dental bridge? Here are five reasons you may want one.
Without another tooth or teeth to prevent your neighboring teeth from moving, they could shift into the space your missing tooth left. A dental bridge would prevent your remaining adjacent teeth from moving or shifting out of the correct position.
Fewer teeth can mean your ability to chew your food is impaired. With a dental bridge, you can resume eating most of the foods you like in a normal, healthy fashion.
Let’s face it: Missing, damaged, stained, or discolored teeth can take away from your appearance and the attractiveness of your smile. You may think that if the missing tooth is in the back of your mouth, no one notices it. When you speak, laugh, or chew, people notice. A dental bridge improves your appearance by brightening your smile.
Missing teeth can lead to a lisp and other speech impediments, or just poor pronunciation. A dental bridge helps ensure that you’re clearly understood.
A dental bridge can help you maintain the normal shape of your face. It can help prevent bone loss from the jaw in the space left by the missing teeth or tooth.
Are you missing a tooth? Thinking about getting a dental bridge or want to learn more about them? Call Fresh Dental Care for an appointment with one of our highly trained dentists to learn more.
