If you are missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge may be the perfect solution for restoring your missing teeth. Although it is not the only option for replacing lost teeth, bridges have historically been the most common means for replacing a single tooth and are also an option if multiple teeth are missing between other healthy teeth.
Dental Bridge Restoring Teeth Look
The way this type of tooth restoration works is that a dental crown or series of crowns is created to take the place of a missing tooth or teeth and the replacement teeth are secured in place by a metal or ceramic framework that attaches the false teeth to caps that are made to cover existing, healthy teeth. These caps are permanently affixed to the surrounding healthy teeth and serve as anchors to keep the replacement teeth permanently in place.
If you choose this option to replace missing teeth, the type of apparatus used on your teeth will depend in part on whether there are healthy teeth on both sides of the missing tooth or on just one side. If there is an existing tooth on both sides, as is most common, you will get a traditional bridge, which secures the replacement tooth to abutments on both sides. If, however, you only have existing teeth on one side of the gap where there is no tooth, then your dentist may opt to fit you for a cantilever bridge, which is constructed in a similar fashion as the traditional option, but with only a single abutment on one side of the false tooth. This option is not as sturdy or secure, but may be necessary if you do not have existing teeth on one side of the gap.
Another option that you may want to consider instead is a dental implant. During this procedure, a titanium rod is surgically implanted into the jaw bone and once healed, serves as a permanent anchor for a replacement tooth. Although this option is more invasive and is also more costly, it provides a more natural look and also preserves bone health, since new bone grows around the implanted rod, keeping the bone strong and reducing the likelihood of bone loss.
Bridges also provide permanent solutions since the replacement tooth is secured in place with the framework that attaches it to the abutments which are permanently secured to the existing healthy teeth. They do, however, require extra maintenance to ensure that no food particles or debris get stuck under the false tooth, which sits on top of the gum and can provide a small space for things to get trapped between the tooth and gum. If this occurs, it can not only be uncomfortable, but can lead to plaque build-up or infection.
If a bridge is the way you choose to go to replace a missing tooth, the entire procedure can be completed in two office visits. During the first visit, the adjoining teeth will be prepared to accept a crown and an impression of the gap and adjoining teeth will be taken so that the bridge can be customized. A temporary apparatus will be put in place while you are waiting for the permanent apparatus to be crafted. Once it is completed, you will return for a second visit during which time the permanent dental bridge will be checked for comfort and fit and will then be permanently secured in your mouth.
For more information about dental bridges, as well as other tooth replacement options, contact Park Dental Care in Queens at 718-274-1515.
