Are Dental Bridges Right for Me?
Adult tooth loss is an unfortunate condition. Often times, tooth loss is a source of embarrassment or shame for the patient. In addition, tooth loss creates gaps in the smile that can cause damage to any remaining natural teeth. Without proper support, remaining teeth are likely to shift into the empty spaces in the mouth. It is important that missing teeth need to be replaced to avoid additional oral health problems. However, determining how to correct tooth loss may not be as clear. There are many choices when it comes to addressing adult tooth loss. At Dr. Jay Chrisman and Dr. David Wyse’s Bloomington cosmetic dentistry practice, patients do not have to make this decision on their own. Our dentists will help patients determine the best replacement for missing teeth. Many of our patients in Bloomington learn that they are ideal candidates for dental bridges.
Just about any patient who has experienced adult tooth loss is a candidate for treatment with a dental bridge. Dental bridges can be used to replace just a single tooth or a group of teeth that are missing from the same area of the mouth. The ideal candidate for dental bridges is one who still has some remaining natural teeth to support the dental bridge. Dental bridges are a good treatment option for patients who do not qualify for dental implants or for those who wish to avoid oral surgery. Dental bridges are also a good option for those who want a more secure option than partial dentures. Dental bridges are artificial teeth that are more permanent than partial dentures but less expensive and less invasive than dental implants.
Securing Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is secured on either side of the gap of missing teeth that it is replacing. For our patients in Bloomington, dental crowns will be cemented over the two teeth on either side of the gap of missing teeth. These dental crowns are used to support and anchor the dental bridge, which is actually one artificial piece that is fabricated to resemble a group of natural teeth.
For qualified candidates, dental implants can also be used to anchor a dental bridge.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
Even when our patients are candidates for multiple tooth replacement treatments, they often choose a dental bridge. This is because most of our patients find that dental bridges are an affordable treatment option that provides many additional benefits. Some of these benefits include:
- A natural looking tooth replacement
- A permanent and secure placement without the need for oral surgery
- A comfortable fit in the mouth
- Support for remaining natural teeth that prevents teeth from caving in or becoming misaligned
- Restored function and improved speaking, eating, and chewing
- The ability to care for the artificial teeth by brushing them along with your natural teeth, rather than removing them for cleaning
Schedule an Appointment
You do not need to let the health of your remaining teeth be compromised by the loss of surrounding teeth. Schedule an appointment at Chrisman & Wyse Cosmetic & General Dentistry to learn about dental bridges and the many other treatment options available for replacing missing teeth.