Types of Dental Bridges and the Procedure for Having Them

Tooth loss is a familiar problem with American adults using at least one permanent tooth before 50. Tooth loss affects the smile and makes people vulnerable to adverse consequences affecting their oral and overall health. Instead of bearing the consequences of tooth loss, the better option is to replace the missing tooth with dental bridges.

Whether you have lost one or several teeth, the need to have them replaced is a requirement you cannot ignore. Porcelain helps make dental bridges attached to a metal structure and supports to bridge the gap between your teeth in the mouth. If you contact the dentist in Leesburg, VA, you receive information that dental bridges are the sixth most common dental procedure patients seek to replace missing teeth. If you haven’t considered teeth replacements, it is time for you to do so right away, selecting a popular option to restore the functionality of your mouth besides your appearance.

When Are Dental Bridges Beneficial?

The dentist near you recommends dental bridges over dental implants if you have existing supporting teeth beside the gap left by the missing tooth. Dental bridges are also beneficial if you cannot have dental implants for medical reasons. Dental bridges are helpful if you experience tooth loss or extraction because of severe tooth decay, periodontal disease, aging, trauma or injury, or medications.

What Types of Dental Bridges Can You Have?

Dental bridges are available in four varieties. They are:

• Traditional Bridges: Traditional dental bridges are the most common among various varieties. Traditional bridges have an artificial tooth called Pontic held by dental crowns on both sides of the gap. This variety is durable and lasts for over a decade with proper dental hygiene.
• Cantilever Bridges: If you have merely one natural tooth next to the gap, you can have a cantilever bridge. A dental crown is placed over the natural tooth, and the cantilever bridge is attached to it.
• Maryland Bridges: These bridges are non-invasive than traditional bridges and consist of an artificial tooth supported by a metal framework. Maryland bridges don’t require extensive tooth removal because they attach to the back of the front teeth adjacent to the missing tooth.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: Dental implants help support implant-supported bridges instead of dental crowns or metal frameworks. Implant-supported bridges are the most durable but require a surgical process and plenty of healing time before you can have artificial teeth over them.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

Getting dental bridges requires two appointments with the dental clinic in Leesburg.

During the first visit, you undergo the tooth preparation process and receive a temporary bridge. The dentist provides you local anesthesia to ensure you are entirely comfortable during the preparation. Your supporting teeth are shaped and filed to help accommodate a dental crown. Tooth structure removal is essential during the preparation.

After shaping your teeth, dentist 20716 takes their impressions to customize your dental bridge in a dental lab.

When your permanent bridges are ready for placement during the second visit, dental bridges in Leesburg, VA, first remove the temporary bridge and clean your teeth. If you experience any pain or sensitivity, you can request anaesthesia from the dentist. The dentist also takes x-rays of the bridge to ensure it fits properly. Finally, the bridge and the abutment teeth are cemented together using special dental cement.

How to Care for Your Dental Bridges?

The after-care regimen for dental bridges requires adopting additional oral care techniques after placement. You must understand the area where the Pontic or artificial tooth rests on the gums is challenging to clean and can result in plaque buildup. The dentist advises you to rinse your mouth with mouthwash besides brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly beneath the bridge. These techniques help reduce inflammation and prevent cavities at the edges of the bridge. You may require additional tools for flossing between a dental bridge. You can request the dentist to recommend the tools you can use to maintain your dental bridges in excellent condition.

Besides following the after-care instructions dentists provide, you must also incorporate six-monthly dental exams and cleanings to ensure your mouth is free from any infections. However, after dental bridge placement, you can rest assured your mouth’s functionality returns as it was earlier before you lost your natural tooth.