Dental bridges are a reliable and effective restorative dental solution for replacing missing teeth. They can help restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and maintain the shape of your face. If you think you might be a candidate for a dental bridge, talk to our Peak Dental team in our Winchester, VA, dental office. They can provide personalized advice and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Smile confidently and enjoy the benefits of a complete set of teeth!
Dental Bridges in Winchester, VA
A dental bridge is a custom-made appliance that fills the gap where one or more teeth are missing. It literally “bridges” the space between two teeth. A bridge typically consists of one or more artificial teeth called pontics. We anchor them in place by crowns attached to the adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth.
Dental bridges offer several benefits for those missing one or more teeth. They can help improve your overall facial appearance. Bridges restore your smile and the natural shape of your face. Additionally, they improve your ability to chew and speak properly.
When you have missing teeth, the remaining teeth can shift over time. Unfortunately, this can cause multiple dental problems. Bridges prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Finally, restoring missing teeth can boost your self-esteem and confidence.
Comparing Dental Bridges, Implants, and Dentures
When considering tooth replacement options, it’s best to understand how dental bridges compare to dental implants and dentures.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants
- Procedure: Dental implants involve surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a tooth root. The dentist then attaches a crown to the post. Bridges, on the other hand, do not require surgery but do involve modifying adjacent teeth.
- Durability: Implants are highly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Bridges typically last 10-15 years.
- Cost: Implants are generally more expensive than bridges, but they may offer a more permanent solution.
Dental Bridges vs. Dentures
- Stability: Bridges are fixed and non-removable, providing a stable solution. Dentures can be removable or fixed (implant-supported dentures).
- Comfort: Bridges tend to be more comfortable and feel more like natural teeth compared to removable dentures.
- Maintenance: Dentures require more maintenance and care, including regular cleaning and sometimes adhesives. You can care for bridges like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Not everyone is a candidate for dental bridges. Crucial dental factors can determine if you are a good candidate. To begin, you need healthy adjacent teeth. The teeth adjacent to the missing tooth must be healthy enough to support the bridge.
Candidates should also have good oral hygiene practices to maintain the health of the bridge and surrounding teeth. This means that you need to have healthy gums to support the bridge as well. Candidates should be committed to regular dental visits and proper care of their dental bridges.