Dental bridges quite literally bridge the gap created when you lose one or more teeth. They are a great way of creating the illusion of a tooth where no tooth actually exists and solve many of the problems created by missing teeth. Here are seven advantages of getting a dental bridge.
Bridges are a natural-looking replacement for a missing tooth
A dental bridge can replace one missing tooth or several, and this type of restoration looks and functions exactly like your real teeth. Bridges are custom-made to span the gap left by a missing tooth, and use the remaining teeth surrounding the gap as attachment anchors.
Bridges can be colour-matched to your existing teeth so that they blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. In fact, no-one will be able to tell that your bridge is not one of your real teeth.
Dental bridges are strong and reliable, and with good care, can last for a long time.
Bridge are a more cost-effective solution to missing teeth
Dental implants are increasing being used to replace missing teeth, and while they are a fantastic solution to the problem, they come at a cost. Dental implants are significantly more expensive than bridges, and thus not everyone may be able to afford them.
Bridges are a much more cost-effective solution and look just as natural and effective as an implant.
Bridges are a faster solution to missing teeth
As opposed to dental implants, bridges can be completed relatively quickly, often over a few days. Bridge placement usually only takes around two dental visits, meaning you can go from a missing tooth to a replacement tooth in a very short amount of time.
This is particularly important if the missing tooth is in a very visible area or is one that you use extensively to eat with.
Bridges offer more stability and fewer dental problems
If the gap created by the missing tooth is left empty, multiple problems can arise. Your teeth and gums can become more susceptible to disease and decay. As well, the surrounding teeth can often sag out of position and drift into the empty space, creating issues such as a bad bite, or gum, periodontal and jaw problems.
A bridge can help prevent these issues from occurring, as it prevents the surrounding teeth from shifting out of place.
Bridges improve speech and self-confidence
People with missing teeth often have problems with their speech, which can lead to embarrassment and self-consciousness. They may also be reluctant to smile. Replacing your missing tooth with a dental bridge can improve both your ability to speak clearly and your confidence to do so, as well as your confidence to smile.
Bridges solve problems with biting and chewing
Missing teeth can cause problems with biting and chewing food, and can make eating difficult, painful or uncomfortable, particularly if the gap is where you do a lot of chewing. A bridge will improve your ability to chew and eat food, and will prevent uneven wear and tear on your other teeth which are compensating for the missing tooth.
Bridges lead to a lifetime of good oral hygiene
To ensure the longevity of your dental bridge, good oral hygiene is a must. If the teeth holding your bridge in place become decayed or damaged, the bridge can lose support and become loose, or even fall out.
Good oral hygiene is absolutely essential if you want your bridge to last as long as possible. Brushing thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily are a good start, and you’ll need to schedule dental check-ups and cleanings regularly. If possible, avoid chewing very hard objects or food, as they may damage your bridge. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is also recommended.
All of this may sound like somewhat of a burden, but it’s actually a positive. We get it – dental hygiene is not the most exciting way to spend your time, but unfortunately, it’s necessary in maintaining a healthy and pain-free mouth.
Having a reason such as a dental bridge gives you extra motivation to maintain a high level of dental hygiene, which can only be a positive thing. If you have to do it, you will – and your mouth will thank you for the rest of your life.
If you think you may benefit from a dental bridge, get in contact with us here at Lentini for a consultation – we’re always happy to help and advise you.
