Replacing lost or missing teeth doesn’t have to be about dentures all the time. Yes, dentures have a few benefits and remain an affordable option for many patients, but with options like fixed dental bridges and dental implants, there are always better ways to address your concerns. Beyond the aesthetics, missing one or more of your natural teeth can alter your facial structure and make it hard to enjoy your favorite foods. If you are visiting a dentist in Lakewood Ranch, FL, for a dental bridge, here are some important details worth your time.
An overview of dental bridges
A fixed bridge is a dental appliance that can help replace one or more missing teeth. Your dentist will explain why you should consider a bridge in place of dentures. When you are missing all your teeth, your next best option is dental implants. There are different kinds of bridges, but the most common one is a traditional fixed bridge. It has two crowns on both sides, while the replacement teeth are in the middle. The crowns are fixed to the adjacent teeth to secure the prosthetic teeth.
“Why has my dentist recommended getting a dental bridge?”
Dental bridges are usually used to fill the space for missing teeth. Your dentist may also consider the choice to maintain your facial shape and prevent the remaining teeth from moving from respective places. You can also enjoy better speaking and chewing capabilities with a bridge, and it can be an excellent way to restore your smile. If you already have a partial denture that’s not enough or feels flimsy, you can still consider a bridge as a permanent way to fix your smile.
A guide to the procedure
You will need at least two dental appointments to get a fixed bridge. Once the teeth are numb, your dentist will prepare the adjacent teeth, also called the abutment teeth, by removing and buffing a part of the enamel. Next, they will take impressions to make molds, which are used to create a fixed bridge in a lab. It can take up to two weeks or more to get the appliance ready. During the next appointment, your dentist will fix the bridge in place. In some cases, dentists may use a temporary bridge during the gap and may not cement the new bridge permanently to see how you adjust to the prosthetic teeth.
Call a dentist in Lakewood Ranch now to learn about various bridges.
