When you have missing teeth, you know how it can affect your self-confidence and make you avoid smiling in pictures. However, have you ever considered the dental issues that missing teeth can cause? Modern dentistry offers several different tooth replacement options for aesthetic and dental health concerns; one such option is a dental bridge.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a tooth replacement option that can fill the gap in your smile and keep your surrounding teeth from shifting. Your dental bridge will be attached on both sides to dental crowns placed on your existing teeth or dental implants. A dental bridge will allow your teeth to function normally again, and no one will know that your bridge is made of artificial teeth. Today’s dental bridges are made without metal and can be shaded to match your natural teeth.
Caring for Your Dental Bridge
With proper care, your dental bridge can last for up to a decade or longer. Follow these tips to help your bridge last as long as possible:
- Brush your teeth twice a day – Don’t be afraid to brush your teeth once you have a dental bridge. Regular brushing is essential to oral health and bridge longevity.
- Avoid extremely hard or cold foods – To keep your dental bridge from wearing out, avoid foods that can cause it to crack or break.
- Rinse with fluoride – When you use a fluoride rinse, it can help strengthen your gums and eliminate bacteria that can cause dental issues and shorten the life of your bridge.
- Floss under your bridge – Regular floss probably won’t work with your dental bridge, so using a floss threader can help keep the area between your gums and your bridge clean.
- Visit your Elk Grove dentist – Be sure to make and keep regular dental appointments with the dental team at Elk Grove Smile Center.
How Can a Dental Bridge Improve Your Oral Health and Your Life?
When you have a gap in your smile, any of the following issues can occur as a result:
- You may be unable to chew your food correctly, which could lead to dietary concerns.
- Missing teeth can alter how you talk, making work and social situations difficult or embarrassing.
- In addition, missing teeth can change the shape of your face, causing it to sag and appear sunken over time.
- Also, missing teeth can cause your other teeth to shift into the gap, causing alignment issues.
Do You Need Information About Dental Bridges in Elk Grove, IL?
If you would like to speak to a member of our caring dental team about dental bridges or any other dental concerns you may have, we are ready to take your call. At Elk Grove Smile Center, we want to help you achieve the best smile possible. Contact our dental office at (847) 437-3250 for more information or to schedule an appointment.