Information on Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a false tooth that is used to conceal a gap. When one or more teeth are missing, a dental bridge can be fixed in place, acting as a more permanent solution than dentures. There are several different types of dental bridges available, although the most traditional kind is fixed between two crowns. The gap left by missing teeth may lead to complications if a dental bridge does not conceal it.
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Purpose
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A dental bridge is used to close the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Closing this gap helps to improve a person's bite, speech and overall dental health. The risk of developing gum disease is higher when a gap is present. Dental bridges also serve an aesthetic purpose. A person can develop self-esteem problems when a gap is visible to others. Dental bridges blend in with the natural teeth, leaving the gap completely unnoticeable.
Types of Dental Bridges
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There are three types of dental bridges available to patients. A traditional bridge, which is the most commonly used, is fixed to two crowns that are placed over the teeth adjacent to the gap. A resin-bonded bridge is commonly used for teeth in the front of the mouth. It is fused to two metal brackets, which are then discreetly bonded to the backs of the adjacent teeth. The third type of dental bridge is a cantilever bridge. It is used when there are teeth on only one side of a gap. A cantilever bridge works best on an area of the mouth that will be under little stress.
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Home Care
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According to information provided by New York-Presbyterian Hospital, it is essential to maintain good dental hygiene when wearing a dental bridge. Any complications, such as gum disease or infection, could result in the loss of a bridge. The teeth should be thoroughly cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush after every meal. In order to prevent any damage to the dental bridge, hard or sticky foods should be avoided.
Advantages
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Closing a gap with a dental bridge has many advantages. It can make chewing food much easier and also provide a more pleasing appearance to the smile. Dental bridges appear very natural and can be customized to blend in with real teeth. In some cases, a person's speech will be improved once the gap is closed.
Disadvantages
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Dental bridges do have a few disadvantages, such as the cost. Without insurance coverage, cosmetic dental work can be expensive. Bridges may also become stained or damaged if not cared for properly. Food particles can gather around the bridge in hard-to-reach areas, making the teeth hard to keep clean. Even if the dental bridge is properly cared for, it will not last a lifetime. Dental bridges are expected to last approximately 10 years with good home care.
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References
- Photo Credit Photo by WaggonerJ, Creative Commons Generic Attribution 2.5 License
