Enhancing Your Confidence with Dental Bridges: Amarillo's Solution for Missing Teeth

If you have one or more missing teeth, you may feel self-conscious about sharing your smile with others. You may think that people immediately notice your missing tooth, so you try to hide it.

A dental bridge is an excellent replacement for missing teeth. These appliances provide an attractive appearance and enhanced chewing ability. This blog explains how dental bridges can improve your confidence while supporting your oral health.

How Dental Bridges Work

A dental bridge is a fixed appliance that holds replacement teeth (pontics) in position, closing a gap in your smile. Depending on your needs, bridges can replace one tooth or a few at a time.

Dental bridges receive their support from abutments, which are the crowns or implants on either side of the gap. These abutments may be prepared with traditional dental crowns or implants.

Types of Dental Bridges

• Standard Bridges: If you have a healthy tooth on either side of the gap, your dentist can place crowns on the healthy teeth to support the pontic.
• Cantilever Bridges: These bridges are helpful when there is a healthy tooth on only one side of the gap. However, cantilever bridges put more strain on the single abutment.
• Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges replace the crowned teeth with dental implants, making them sturdier and longer-lasting than standard models.

How Dental Bridges Enhance Your Quality of Life

Smile Without Worry

When you receive a dental bridge, you will feel relieved that you can smile again without feeling self-conscious.

Speak Clearly

Missing teeth can cause unclear speech and make pronouncing certain sounds a challenge.

Maintain a Nutritious Diet

If you have missing teeth, you may have chewing issues. A bridge completes your dentition and allows for a more balanced diet.

Improve Oral Health

Bridges improve oral health by preventing teeth from shifting, which can cause uneven wear and a greater chance of breakage. Gaps between teeth can collect food and plaque, leading to a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Tips to Keep Your Bridge in Good Repair

• Avoid hard and crunchy foods
• Do not chew non-food objects like ice, pens, or fingernails
• Keep your bridge clean using floss threaders and interproximal brushes
• Ensure that you do not skip any routine dental cleanings or exams

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges

How long do dental bridges last?

A conventional dental bridge should last between five and 15 years, but with excellent care, it usually lasts much longer.

Our expert team at Amarillo Dental Associates looks forward to helping you understand your tooth replacement options. If you wish to learn more about bridges, please contact us to schedule your consultation today!