The Process of Getting Dental Bridges
by Lillian Dixon
If you have gaps between two or more missing teeth, then you ought to consider getting dental bridges. A dental bridge is basically a structure placed between two of your crowns in order to fill gaps that are between your missing teeth. However, before you rush to the dentist, you ought to have some general knowledge on bridges in order to understand what you are getting into. The following is a brief overview of dental bridges.
Reasons for getting dental bridges
- Keep the remaining teeth from getting out of position
- Enabling you to chew and speak properly
- Keep the structure of your face intact
- Evenly distribute the forces used for biting by replacing the teeth that are missing
The process of getting dental bridges
On your first visit to the dentist, your teeth are prepared for the bridges. A portion of your enamel is removed leaving room where a crown will be placed over your teeth.
The dentist will make impressions of your teeth to help the laboratory come up with models for making the bridge and crowns. The dentist will give you a temporary bridge for protecting exposed gums and teeth as you await the permanent bridge.
On your second visit, the dentist will remove the temporary bridge and adjust the permanent bridge for a proper fit. You will be required to make more visits to the dentist so that your bite and the fit for the metal frame work are checked. If the bridge is a permanent one, the dentist might temporarily cement it for a few weeks to ensure it fits properly. After a few weeks, the bridge will be cemented permanently.
How long will your bridges last?
With regular checkups and proper oral hygiene, your bridges could last up to 15 years.
Will you have trouble eating?
The dental bridge is supposed to make eating much easier by replacing missing teeth. However, until you get accustomed to your bridge, eat foods that are soft and that have been chopped into small pieces.
Caring for a bridge
You need to keep the remaining teeth strong and healthy because the condition of your bridge will depend on the foundation provided by your surrounding teeth.
You should brush two times a day and floss daily to prevent gum disease and tooth decay that cause tooth loss. Also ensure you go for dental checkups on a regular basis so that problems with your bridge are diagnosed early. Finally, ensure you eat a balanced diet as it ensures your teeth remain healthy.
Learn more about the process and the cost by contacting local clinics such as Swansea Family Dental.
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About Me
As a mum, I know how essential sport can be to children's development. Through team sports like soccer, kids learn persistence, sportsmanship and the value of supporting their team members. However, all that learning carries some risk as well, and a stray elbow or a ball to the face can result in oral injuries. I have been the mum rushing to the emergency room with a precious permanent tooth sitting in a cup of milk. Admittedly, at the time, I wasn't even sure if the cup of milk was the right solution. As a parent, you will face those situations, and I'm here to make sure you know what to do when they pop up. With this blog, let's explore children's dentistry and sports injuries together... I want you to have the info you need to stay cool, calm and collected, regardless of how many teeth are on the pitch.