In the wake of tooth loss, a person is faced with various challenges.
First, the absence of a tooth (or teeth) in the mouth increases the risk of the remaining teeth shifting out of alignment. Also, the vacant spot in the mouth can become an entry point for bacteria, which can cause gum disease and other infections. Thirdly, tooth loss can result in a loss of jawbone density if the site of the missing teeth is left untreated. Additionally, there are aesthetics. Tooth loss leaves gaps between remaining teeth that can have a detrimental effect on a person’s smile and self-confidence.
Today we’re at dental bridges – what exactly they are and their role in restoring the form and function of your smile.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is a dental restoration comprised of artificial teeth that replaces one or multiple adjacent missing teeth and restores the structure and aesthetics of a person’s mouth. The artificial teeth that comprise a bridge are supported by dental crowns or implants (or “abutments”) and “bridge” the gap created by tooth loss.
Bridges can be made from a variety of materials (porcelain or ceramic are most common, though zirconium and other composites are also available) and customized to match the color and shape of surrounding teeth. With proper care, a dental bridge should last a minimum of seven to ten years but can last for up to twenty years or more!
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges have a significant impact on the structure of a person’s mouth. Beyond their vital restorative effect on biting and chewing, bridges provide a natural-looking aesthetic upgrade to a person’s smile and, as a result, their self-confidence.
Equally importantly, by replacing missing teeth, bridges eliminate the lisp, poor enunciation, and other speech impediments accompanying tooth loss and promote clearer, more comfortable, and more confident speech.
Dental Bridges in Aurora, IL
If you’re in the Aurora area and would like to learn more about upgrading both your smile and your bite with dental bridges, contact dentist Dr. Christine Wang and the team at Prairie Dental Care to schedule a consultation!