Dental bridges can fill the space of missing teeth using artificial teeth, securing itself by connecting to adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap. In contrast to removable dentures, a dental bridges is permanently fixed in position through a procedure performed by your dentist or dental practitioner.
Typically crafted from materials like porcelain, zirconia, or gold alloy, dental bridges may also incorporate resin and metal or be supported by dental implant.
When considering the replacement of missing teeth, various options are available. Dental implant and dental bridges stand out as two popular restorative choices. The key question is determining which option is the most suitable for your needs.
At what point might a dental bridge be necessary?
If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental bridge may be required. To be eligible for a dental bridge, it is necessary to have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap in your dental structure.
How they operate
A dental implant functions as an artificial tooth root, typically crafted from titanium, securely positioned in the space left by a missing tooth. During the osseointegration process, lasting up to six months, a temporary protective cover screw is affixed to the dental implant as it fuses with the jawbone. This phase results in a remarkably stable and durable prosthetic. Following successful osseointegration, the protective cover is swapped with a temporary crown, acting as a guide for natural gum growth and shaping. The final step involves replacing the temporary crown with a permanent one, completing the process.
Explore further information on dental implant.
A dental bridges, compared to a dental implant, exhibits both less and more invasive characteristics. Unlike implants, dental bridges don’t serve as replacements for a tooth root. Instead, they utilize one or more neighboring teeth as a support to affix a crown, filling the space left by the missing tooth. Although the treatment duration is shorter than that of implants, which involve osseointegration, it is somewhat more invasive because it necessitates the permanent modification of adjacent teeth to provide support for the bridge. True to its name, a dental bridges essentially span the gap resulting from a missing tooth, requiring attachment to one or more adjacent teeth that need to be filed down to function as support.
Do you qualify?
Candidates for dental implant and dental bridges must fulfill specific requirements, which are assessed during an initial treatment consultation.
Dental implantation is typically carried out post-adolescence, once bone growth is finalized. X-rays or CT scans are commonly employed to assess bone density and quality, determining the suitability of a potential implant candidate based on available bone structure. Smokers are required to cease smoking to meet candidacy criteria, as there is a heightened risk of implant failure among smokers. Furthermore, individuals dealing with conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or periodontal disease may require supplementary treatments to become eligible for implantation.
Qualifying for a dental bridge is generally more inclusive compared to dental implant candidacy, owing to the comparatively less invasive nature of the bridge procedure. The key consideration in assessing candidacy for a bridge revolves around the health and stability of the supporting teeth. In cases of periodontal disease, tooth decay, or issues like chips or cracks, additional treatments may be necessary to strengthen the teeth sufficiently for supporting a dental bridge.
What is the recommended maintenance for a dental bridge?
You should brush your dental bridge using fluoride toothpaste, just as you would for natural teeth. Since the crowns forming the bridge are connected, traditional floss cannot be threaded between them. Consult with your dentist or dental practitioner to determine the most effective method for cleaning beneath your dental bridge.
Regular appointments with your dentist or dental practitioner are equally essential.
Can Dental Bridge Impact Your Speech?
You might observe a slight alteration in your speech after receiving dental bridge, as they rest on your gums and can affect the movement of your mouth. Additionally, your teeth contribute to the production of specific sounds.
The positive news is that this is a minor and temporary side effect, often resolving within a week or two as you acclimate to the new bridge. During this adjustment period, consider speaking slowly and purposefully. Engaging in activities like reading aloud or practicing challenging sounds can also be beneficial. If any speech-related challenges persist, please inform us so that we can make necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort with your new smile.
In certain instances, you may need to adapt the way you articulate certain words, especially if the bridge is on your front teeth. For instance, correctly pronouncing “the” may require some practice. Should you experience any pain or discomfort, inform us promptly, and we can collaborate on finding suitable solutions to facilitate a swift return to your normal routine.
What is the Duration of the Recovery Period?
The recovery duration following dental bridge surgery varies from person to person, but generally, individuals can anticipate returning to normal within a week or two. Adhering to the post-operative care instructions provided by your dentist is crucial for a swift and complication-free recovery.
Allowing your mouth time to acclimate to the new bridge is equally important. This involves refraining from consuming hard or sticky foods for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Additionally, abstaining from tobacco products is advised to avoid irritation and inflammation, which could prolong the recovery period.
To prevent the failure of your dental bridge, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental check-ups to address any potential gum disease. This proactive approach contributes to a smoother recovery process.
Final Comments
The recovery process for dental bridges is typically uncomplicated. Typically, you should resume regular eating and speaking activities within a few days. If you encounter any pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. With diligent care, you can maintain healthy teeth for an extended period.
If you’re considering dental bridges or wish to gain a deeper understanding of the procedure, reach out to Byford Smiles today! Our dental team is here to respond to your inquiries and ease any concerns you may have regarding the treatment. Contact our clinic or schedule an appointment online.
