A dental bridge can be an excellent way to replace a missing tooth or teeth, and your insurance may even cover it. If you have decided to have one placed, you may wish to understand what living with a dental bridge is like first.
Overall, it’s not much different than living with your natural teeth. And it’s so much better than not having a tooth there at all.
The Basics about Living with a Dental Bridge
A bridge literally bridges the gap in your teeth. A solid crown known as a pontic fills the space, and that tooth is attached to a crown on both sides. The crowns will be placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. The real teeth on either side of the gap will require some minor modification to make room for the crowns.
In addition to filling gaps in your teeth, bridgework can protect your jaw and facial structure. Gaps in the gumline will cause the remaining teeth to move into the empty space and form an improper mouth bite. Bridges will provide you with a better smile, a full bite, and an overall improved quality of life.
After your bridge is placed, routinely brushing and flossing it along with your other teeth is crucial. You will need special floss that you can move between these teeth with a front to back motion, rather than the up and down motion that you use with your other teeth. An oral irrigator, or water flosser, is another tool you can use to keep your teeth clean.
Make an Appointment to Learn More
A dental bridge can restore your ability to chew and speak properly, may straighten your teeth, and can maintain the integrity of your jawline. Best of all, the process takes just a few weeks and only requires a couple of visits to the dentist.
Make an appointment with Dr. Holtzman to learn more about this tooth replacement option.