Preventive dentistry aims to help patients keep their natural teeth healthy. But, even with sufficient preventive measures, it’s still possible to experience tooth loss. With dental bridges, however, patients can easily replace their missing teeth, restore their oral function, and boost their self-confidence.
At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges and his caring team can help you repair your smile with quality dental bridges. From start to finish, you’ll get the patient-centered care that you deserve. So, don’t wait–call our Duncan, OK, dental office now at (580) 255-4880 or request an appointment online here.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, then you might be wondering if dental bridges are right for you. Here, Dr. Bridges will answer five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dental bridges to help you make the right choice for you.
What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic made from high-quality materials to resemble the appearance and function of natural teeth. Typically, a dental bridge contains one or more false teeth, which are held in place with the help of dental crowns on neighboring teeth. However, some dental bridges maintain their position in the mouth by fastening to sturdy dental implants.
Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?
Traditionally, an ideal candidate is one who has at least one missing tooth or several missing teeth in a row. But, tooth loss alone is not a sufficient qualifier for candidacy.
Patients must also have good oral health before getting a dental bridge. Otherwise, cavities and gum disease will continue to wreak havoc on the patient’s oral and overall health.
Nonetheless, most patients with one or more missing teeth in a row are usually ideal candidates for a dental bridge. And because a traditional dental bridge is minimally-invasive, it is a suitable alternative to dental implants.
Are there different types of dental bridges?
Yes, there are many types of dental bridges. But, the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center only offers traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges.
Traditional bridges use dental crowns to hold their place in the mouth. Whereas, implant-supported bridges require surgically implanted titanium posts for stability.
Ultimately, an in-depth consultation with Dr. Bridges will help you choose the right type of dental bridge for you, your health, and your lifestyle.
How long does a dental bridge last?
With the proper care, a dental bridge can last at least a decade. Daily brushing and flossing combined with regular dental checkups and cleanings will help patients keep their appliances for longer.
Does a dental bridge make it harder to eat and speak?
At first, a dental bridge might feel foreign while eating and speaking. However, most patients quickly grow accustomed to their dental bridges after the first few days of wear.
Generally, patients with a dental bridge report increased ease, comfort, and confidence while eating and speaking.
Schedule a Dental Bridge Consultation Today
If you are missing one or more consecutive teeth, then a dental bridge might be right for you. Schedule a comprehensive consultation now to verify your candidacy. New and existing patients can contact our Duncan dental office at (580) 255-4880 or send us a message online here.
