One or more missing teeth negatively influence a person’s appearance, emotions, and also physical comfort while eating and socializing. Because of the aesthetic issues caused by missing teeth, many solutions can be found in cosmetic dentistry procedures. Missing teeth also lead to shifts in alignment, which can cause improper bites, speech impediments, and even a greater risk of gum disease and tooth decay. It is very common for patients to seek dental implants to replace teeth because implants are permanent and look and feel natural. The more traditional method of replacing lost teeth is a dental bridge—this method is also very commonly used. Dental bridges last about 15 to 20 years or more if properly cared for. Bridges are done over the course of a few office visits.
Steps for Bridges
The first step for patients looking to get a dental bridge is to be examined to ensure that the overall health of teeth and gums make him or her a viable candidate for the procedure. The next step for those who are qualified is to prepare the teeth that will support the bridge. (This generally involves each tooth on either side of the missing tooth.) These teeth are prepared by being filed down to a small size, as they too will be covered by the bridge. (One of the main reasons some patients opt for dental implants in Canada and the US is to avoid the step of filing down existing, healthy teeth.)
First visit: The dentist then makes an impression of the teeth and sends it to a dental laboratory where the bridge is made. Designing bridges from a replica of the patient’s teeth ensures a precise fit. This is critical to avoid decaying of the supporting teeth and other issues that can arise when there are gaps between gums and teeth or between natural teeth and a bridge. While the bridge is being designed, the dentist provides a temporary bridge. This protects the nerves of the teeth that have been filed so that the patient remains comfortable during the transition.
Second visit: During this visit, the dentist fits and cements the bridge firmly in place. Initially patients feel aware of the bridge due to the prior absence of a tooth in its place, but the appearance of teeth is transformed by the end of this visit, as patients leave the office with their once-missing tooth fully restored!
Candidates who need tooth replacement can contact local family or cosmetic dentists to ask questions or schedule an evaluation to find out if they have the required overall health needed to be eligible. Patients should be sure to go with an experienced professional to ensure the best aesthetic and functional results.