Dental bridges, also called fixed partial dentures, are false teeth used to bridge gaps caused by missing teeth. It consists of dental crowns, which are anchors placed on teeth on each side of the gaps. False teeth are typically made of porcelain, but they can also be made of gold and alloys or a combination of these materials.
It is essential to replace missing teeth as quickly as possible to avoid complications, such as moving teeth, eating and speaking problems, and gum injuries. However, you should first know the advantages and disadvantages of dental bridges before deciding on your treatment plan.
Advantages Of Dental Bridges
Aesthetic Correction
Dental bridges cover the gaps caused by missing teeth to restore your smile. The color of the false teeth is typically matched to that of surrounding teeth, making them as natural-looking as possible. With dental bridges, you can be more confident flashing your gorgeous smile!
Reduce Risk Of Bone Loss
Bridges also reduce the risk of bone loss from the jaw caused by missing teeth, thus helping you maintain your face’s normal structure.
Improved Comfort And Function
In addition to aesthetic correction, dental bridges also help restore the function of your teeth. Missing teeth can cause discomfort while chewing. The bridge fills in the gaps of the missing teeth to allow you to chew properly.
Chewing is not the only function that dental bridges can restore. It improves your speech, as well. Teeth play a crucial role in forming sounds, and even one missing tooth can affect how you speak. It is especially hard to talk when you are missing your front teeth. One way to improve your speech is by filling in gaps with dental bridges.
Stabilize Teeth
Bridges also prevent the remaining teeth beside the gaps from moving out of place. If this is left unnoticed or untreated, more complications can arise in the future.
Disadvantages Of Dental Bridges
Although there are many benefits to getting dental bridges, you should also be aware of the disadvantages it might bring.
Damage To Other Teeth
Dental bridges may cause healthy teeth to become damaged. The procedure of getting dental bridges may require the filing of two adjacent healthy and natural teeth before making a bridge. The enamel and dentin will have to be removed, and the teeth will have to be reshaped. Although destructive to natural teeth, it is an essential step to make room for dental crowns.
A temporary bridge will be given to you while waiting for your permanent bridge to be prepared by a dental lab. When the permanent bridge is ready, it then has to be cemented to the adjacent natural teeth. Some patients may need to make multiple visits to their dentist for adjustments and check-ups to ensure their dental bridges are placed correctly. Choosing a highly experienced dentist to perform the procedure can help reduce such risks.
Tooth Sensitivity
Bridges last long but may fail because of tooth decay in the surrounding real teeth. The cement may also deteriorate. If not done properly, the patient may also feel sensitivity and pain. This is why only an experienced dentist should be chosen to install your dental bridges.
Dental Bridge Services at Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
With proper care and oral hygiene, dental bridges can last for decades. You also need to find the right dentist that can help you – someone with a wealth of experience, expertise, and talent. If you wish to have your teeth restored without the fear of having complications, look no further than Dr. Steven Hagerman of Hagerman Dental Care.
Hagerman Dental Care offers restorative dentistry services such as dental bridges, dental crowns, and implants. Should you have questions about our services, you may call our office at (651) 646-2392, or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you restore your beautiful smile.