Replacing the lost teeth in your mouth will be high on your mind especially if you do not want to encounter the problems that can affect you with missing teeth. You will have difficulties eating, speaking, and most importantly smiling properly before everyone simply because you have gaps between your teeth. You can consider options like dentures that can help you but are not the best solution available. You can consider dental implants to replace the missing teeth but may find the costs associated with them and the surgical procedure time-consuming. However, if you consider dental bridges you will be selecting a viable option to bridge the gaps created by one or more missing teeth.
A dental bridge is made up of two crowns which are positioned on either side Of the gap left behind by the missing tooth and the two anchoring teeth will be known as abutment teeth. A false tooth will be placed in between. The false teeth can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. The false teeth which are called Pontics are supported by natural teeth.
Dental bridges can benefit you in many ways some of which are described below:
You can find three types of bridges that will be offered to you by the dentist in Providence, RI. They are:
Traditional bridges which require creating a crown for the tooth or implant on both sides of the missing tooth with a Pontic in between. These are the most common types of bridges and are developed from porcelain fused to metal or ceramic. Ceramic bridges will also be available to you in the form of traditional bridges.
A cantilever bridge is used when there are neighboring teeth only on one side of the missing tooth. A cantilever bridge is used for replacing just a single tooth.
Maryland bonded bridges are made of plastic teeth and gums that are supported by a metal framework. Metal clasps on either side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.
During your first visit to Providence dental, the abutment teeth will be prepared for the crown. The preparations require recontouring these teeth by removing some enamel to make space for the crown to be placed over them. Thereafter the dentist will take impressions of your teeth to serve as a model from which the crowns, Pontic, and bridge will be made by the dental laboratory. As the dental laboratory develops the bridge your dentist will provide you with a temporary bridge to cover the exposed teeth and gums.
Your temporary bridge will be removed during your second visit to the dentist and the new permanent bridge will be evaluated and adjusted if required to fit properly. You may be required to make multiple visits to the dentist to check the fit of the metal framework and bite. If you have opted for a permanent or fixed bridge the dentist will temporarily bond it into place for about two weeks to ensure it fits properly. The bridge will be cemented permanently in place after a couple of weeks.
The cost of dental bridges will vary according to the type of bridge selected and the location where the procedure is performed. Depending on your individual dental plan the insurance company may typically reimburse you a percentage of the fee.
Dental bridges can last for a decade and 1/2 or even more. With proper oral hygiene and regular prophylaxis, it will not be difficult for the lifespan of a fixed bridge to be over 10 years.
It is essential for you to keep your remaining teeth healthy because the success of bridges and the type will depend on a stable foundation offered by the surrounding teeth. Brushing twice a day and flossing can prevent tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to loss of teeth in your mouth. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide you a demonstration of how to brush and floss properly. You must also visit your dentist every six months for checkups and exams because they can help diagnose any issues early on to be treated immediately.