Dental Bridges Weymouth MA
Although a variety of treatments are available for decayed or badly damaged teeth, a tooth can sometimes be beyond repair, leaving an unattractive gap in your smile. A gap in your smile can negatively impact your self-confidence, not to mention the function of surrounding teeth. In cases like these, dental bridges may make an appropriate treatment choice.
Dental Bridge Options
The following are some types of dental bridges:
Traditional Bridges
In most cases, patients would receive a traditional bridge. This involves the creation of dental crowns fitted to teeth on each side of the empty space, functioning as support for a false tooth known as a “pontic” that rests between the crowns. Most traditional bridges are constructed from porcelain-fused-to metal, or ceramic.
Resin-Bonded Bridges
Sometimes known as a Maryland bridge, this form can be manufactured from materials like complete porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Resin-bonded bridges have wings on either side of the bridge, normally constructed from porcelain or metal for secure bonding to natural teeth.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are employed for situations where existing teeth on one end of the gap cannot serve as anchors.
What Exactly Is a Bridge or Fixed Partial Denture?
A fixed bridge, sometimes known as a fixed partial denture, cannot be removed. It is connected to abutment teeth on either side of the empty space in your mouth.
Why Do I Need a Bridge?
You may benefit from a dental bridge if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Want to restore your smile by replacing a missing tooth
- Want to restore proper biting, chewing and speaking
- Want to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the gap in your smile
How Is a Bridge Attached?
Dental bridges are bonded to one or more anchor teeth on either side of the missing space in your smile.
What Materials Are Used?
A wide variety of materials can be used for the creation of dental bridges, including complete porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold and metallic alloys. To determine the right materials for the creation of your dental bridge, consult with your dentist.
How Do I Take Care of My Bridge?
Once you’ve made the investment in a dental bridge, you will want to do everything that you can to take care of it so that it lasts for as long as possible. Make sure that you:
Use a Soft Brush
When you brush your teeth, be sure that you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush together with a non-abrasive toothpaste. This helps avoid damaging your new dental bridge.
Cleaning Your Bridge
If you have a removable dental bridge, rinse it with cool water to clean it. Avoid cleaning your bridge using hot water, as it could warp the material.
Avoid Chewing Hard Foods
If you have a dental bridge, avoid chewing hard foods, candy, and ice that could damage your bridge. Foods like nuts and hard bread could also damage your dental bridge.