The site of tooth loss in the jawbone and the gums surrounding it must be protected from infection. Dentures, dental, implants, crowns, and bridges all offer varying degrees of protection in these scenarios. Today we’re taking a closer look at one of these popular and effective tooth replacement solutions: dental bridges.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are dental prosthetic devices consisting of artificial teeth and gum tissue that restore form, function, and aesthetic appeal to a person’s smile and bite. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by “bridging the gap” created by their loss. A bridge’s artificial teeth, or “pontics,” are typically supported by dental implants or crowns placed on remaining natural teeth adjacent to the gap.
Dental bridges can be made from various materials, with porcelain and ceramic being the most popular, and can be customized to match the color and shape of natural teeth.
The Biggest Benefits of Dental Bridges
We’ve sorted through the myriad benefits of dental bridges and selected a few of the most significant:
- After tooth loss, adjacent teeth can shift out of alignment into the vacated space. Dental bridges prevent this shifting.
- Tooth loss impairs a person’s ability to confidently and comfortably bite, chew, and speak. A dental bridge restores the bite and allows for proper chewing. This aids the digestive system to better extract nutrients from food. It also provides confidence to speak clearly, naturally, and comfortably.
- Teeth help maintain a person’s natural facial structure When they’re missing, the bones that support them begin to deteriorate, causing certain facial muscles to sink and sag, and making a person look older than they are. Dental bridges help to prevent bone loss in the jaw and maintain a normal, younger-looking facial shape.
- If fitted and cared for properly, a dental bridge can last for several years without requiring re-treatment.
Precisely Placing Dental Bridges in Elk Grove, IL
If you’re in the Elk Grove area, considering long-term tooth replacement options, and want to learn more about how a dental bridge can restore the form and function of your mouth, contact dentist Dr. Vishal Advani and the friendly and knowledgeable Elk Grove Smile Center Team schedule a consultation!