Missing teeth can have an aesthetic and functional affect on the smile. When patients are struggling with tooth loss, they may be unaware of the many options available to their for repair. Dr. Michael Stern of Smile Brighter Willoughby Hills encourages patients to take the time to learn about the variety of methods available for restoration including dental bridges.
Dental bridges are a popular option for Ohio area residents who want a more permanent solution to tooth loss than a partial denture but a more economical option than dental implants. Dental bridges are a popular “middle of the road” solution to tooth loss that many patients enjoy using to repair their smile.
Dental bridges are restorations made of porcelain false teeth (called pontics) fused to porcelain dental crowns. This long restoration is made to bond over the top of the surrounding teeth which are used as a support for the bridge. The false teeth float closely above the gum line to repair the smile and keep the existing teeth from shifting out of place, a problem that commonly happens when patients do not immediately restore their smile after tooth loss or extraction.
Dental bridges are a wonderful alternative to implants and dentures and many patients find they are appropriate candidate for dental bridges. However, it is important for patients to understand the care necessary to maintain these restorations for many years. Patients must ensure they brush and floss underneath the dental bridge where food particles can accumulate. The teeth under the dental bridge which the crowns are bonded over may also be susceptible to periodontal disease and tooth decay. Patients with dental bridges are encouraged to visit their dentist at least twice a year for an examination and x-rays to check the health of the teeth supporting the bridge as well as the health of the gums over time to catch problems such as gum disease early enough to reverse.
If you have been considering restorative solutions for your smile and are interested in speaking with a dental professional regarding dental bridges, contact our team today to schedule a consultation appointment with Smile Brighter Willoughby Hills in Ohio.
Willoughby Hills, Ohio area dentist describes dental bridges
