eTopical Precious Finds
Missing teeth can be both disruptive to the appearance of your smile as well as your overall oral health. Each tooth relies on those around it for support. So, when one goes missing, it can cause the teeth to shift. The result? A misaligned bite, crooked teeth, newly formed gaps, gum disease, tooth decay, and more. This is why it is so important to replace missing teeth with an artificial tooth replacement. A dental bridge is a great option – as long as it is a good fit.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge fills the gap between two teeth. There are several different types, but the most common dental bridge is one that consists of a dental crown placed on the support teeth on either side of the empty space. The crowns are connected to a bridge of false teeth between them. Another common option is the use of dental implants – especially if you have a few missing teeth in a row. The dental implant acts as the supporting tooth (or teeth) and connects to the bridge. This leaves your healthy natural teeth untouched.
There are many benefits to dental bridges, including:
- Preventing your teeth from shifting
- Improve your ability to speak and chew
- Enhance your smile
- Maintain the natural shape of your face
But in order to reap these benefits, you have to have a dental bridge that is properly fitted.
How a Dental Bridge is Fitted
The process for getting fitted for a dental bridge may vary depending on the type of dental bridge you choose. For instance, a bridge using crowns will involve having a mold done in order to create the crowns and the bridge. For the implant-supported dental bridge, you will need to go through the implantation process – and potential bone grafting, as well – before the bridge can be attached.
Regardless of which type you choose, the idea is for the bridge to fit flush against your gum line. In other words, there should not be any space for food or other debris to get trapped.
Dangers of an Ill-Fitted Bridge
When dental bridges don’t fit properly against the gum line, they can cause some oral health concerns that include decay, infection, pain, and breakage.
Decay and infection. When there is space for food and debris to hide, such as between the bridge and the gum line, it can be difficult to remove with brushing and flossing. As it piles up and remains untouched, decay and infection can occur. This can cause damage to the surrounding, healthy teeth.
Pain. After getting a bridge initially, there may be some pain and discomfort. This is normal. However, if the pain persists, it could be the result of the bridge not fitting properly.
Breakage. Without a perfect fit, it is possible that the dental bridge will break because of undue stress. This may also lead to more advanced oral health concerns.
It is very important that your dental bridge is fitted perfectly in order to maintain a healthy mouth – or else you may find yourself dealing with these unwanted dental issues.
Visiting your dentist regularly and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is the best way to find success with your dental bridge. Of course, having a highly skilled and experienced dental team handle your bridge is always a great idea.
The New York Center for Orthognathic and Maxillofacial Surgery believes that every patient deserves the highest standard of dental care and provides expert care to three convenient locations in the New York area.
