When you’re missing even just one permanent tooth, it can make everyday things like eating, smiling confidently, and speaking clearly very difficult. Dental bridges in Midlothian can fill in those gaps in your arches, restoring up to four consecutive teeth and the ability to use your mouth to eat, smile, and converse.
Dental bridges are prosthetic restorations that can replace up to four consecutive missing teeth. They are held in place in your arches by anchoring to two healthy “abutment” teeth that are reshaped to support the bridge. These prosthetics can be made of a variety of materials; however, we typically use natural looking and feeling materials such as porcelain to create a seamless, lifelike repair.
There are two different types of dental bridges in Midlothian: traditional and implant. Exactly which one will work best for your smile will depend on several factors, which your dentist will discuss with you during your consultation.
Traditional bridges can restore up to four consecutive missing teeth; however, they require the empty space in your arch to be surrounded by at least one healthy tooth on each side. These teeth are then reshaped so the prosthetic can be cemented on top.
Traditional bridges can be used to enjoy a full diet, and because they’re matched to your existing teeth, are virtually indistinguishable in your smile. These restorations typically last between five and ten years before they need to be replaced.
Implant bridges combine the convenience of a dental bridge with the security of dental implants. Using at least two titanium or zirconium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone, implant bridges do not require you to have healthy abutment teeth to work, which means you also won’t need to alter your healthy teeth to get them. Furthermore, because they are permanently attached, they should last much longer than a traditional dental bridge, saving you time and money. Finally, because they are stronger and more durable than traditional bridges, they can support more missing teeth and provide greater biteforce when they do.
Dental bridges in Midlothian can replace up to four consecutive missing teeth on an arch. While this may not seem like a big deal, especially if they’re hidden in the back of your mouth, empty spaces in your smile could eventually lead to further tooth loss. By restoring your missing teeth with a dental bridge, you can help prevent your existing teeth from shifting out of place. They can also help improve your ability to eat a wider range of foods, speak clearly, and smile confidently.
To learn more about dental bridges and to see if this treatment is right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation!
