If you have recently lost one or more of your pearly whites, you may have noticed changes in the way you chew and speak. This decrease in function can be frustrating and may lower your self-esteem. To help improve your abilities and have a complete smile again, Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers dental bridges to replace missing teeth in the same row.
Read more: A Dental Bridge Can Renew Your ConfidenceWhat Is A Dental Bridge?
A bridge is exactly what it sounds like. It is a prosthetic that bridges the gap in your smile. It is a helpful replacement option for patients missing one to three teeth in a row. It will be secured in place by using the structures next to it. It will be created using measurements of your oral cavity and will blend in with your other dental structures for a natural appearance. For extra support, crowns may be placed on these teeth, so the replacement pieces do not place too much wear and tear. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over your pearly whites for extra protection. They are made of porcelain and will blend in with your smile.
How It Differs From Other Prosthetics
Unlike dentures, a bridge is not removable. It is a permanent way to fill the gap in your smile. In contrast, dentures are removable prosthetics that can replace missing dentitions throughout your smile. This is a good option for patients who have more severe tooth loss, or loss in multiple areas.
Implants are another way to replace missing teeth. With this method, a post is secured into the jawbone and a crown is attached. This allows the root to be replaced as well as the visible part.
Preventing Tooth Loss
Although there are many ways that your teeth can be replaced, it is best to keep your natural pearly whites for as long as possible. Accidents that can knock out your teeth may not be preventable, but periodontal disease can be. Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of adult loss of dentition. This starts out as gingivitis but can continue to progress if left untreated. If you have gingivitis, you may notice that the tissue is inflamed, discomfort when you floss, and persistent bad breath. At your next checkup, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to remove plaque buildup from below your gum line. This will help stop the progression of gum disease. Deep cleanings can also help manage later stages of gum disease so that they do not progress further. Depending on your condition, you may need several of these cleanings.
Replace Your Missing Teeth Today
To schedule a consultation for a dental bridge, call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, today at (515) 965-0230.
