When it comes to your oral health, there are other concerns you may have besides cavities and gum disease. Missing teeth can cause problems for your health and self-esteem. If you are missing several teeth in the same row, a dental bridge may be able to give you a complete smile again. In today’s blog, Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, is here to discuss how this prosthetic works.
Read more: How A Dental Bridge Can Complete Your SmileWhat Causes Missing Teeth?
The leading cause of tooth loss in adults today is periodontal disease. This is an infection that can begin as gingivitis and continue progressing into further stages. Along with tooth loss, this disease can also cause several oral and physical health problems. If you are experiencing any stage of periodontal disease, see your dentist as soon as possible. Deep cleanings may be used to help manage your symptoms and prevent tooth loss. Tooth loss may also occur after an accident or injury to the tooth. If you have harmed one of your pearly whites in an accident, visit your dentist as soon as possible to have the area examined. If the tooth has been knocked out or lost, it is important to replace it promptly to avoid future difficulty with chewing and speaking.
Dental Bridges Fill The Gap In Your Smile
If you are missing up to four teeth in the same row, a dental bridge may be used to achieve a full grin. This is a permanent prosthetic replacement that is held in place by the adjacent teeth. Your dentist may apply crowns to these supporting dental structures to prevent wear and tear over time. This prosthetic can help improve your ability to chew and speak, as well as improve your self-esteem when you smile.
Unlike dentures, you will not need to take this prosthetic out to clean. If you are experiencing more severe tooth loss, or loss in multiple areas throughout your smile, your dentist may recommend dentures instead. These can be full or partial depending on your needs.
Maintaining Your Dental Bridge
This prosthetic replacement is created to last for many years. With proper care, it may be able to last up to 15 years. Your dentist will be able to show you how to brush and floss with your dental bridge. You should also continue seeing the dentist twice a year after having the bridge installed. Although this can replace missing teeth, it does not protect your natural teeth and gums from other problems, so be sure to take care of your smile.
Talk To Our Team About Your Options
You don’t have to live with gaps in your smile. Talk to our team at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, at (515) 965-0230 to learn about your prosthetic replacement options.
