Tooth loss is a problem that we understand much better now than we did just a century ago. In this day and age, we do not perceive tooth loss as a normal rite of passage into old age. Thanks to scientific research, we now see tooth loss as an unnecessary event in most situations. Sure, there are those unforeseen circumstances, such as a sports injury, that could knock out a permanent tooth. Most of the time, though, we are well in control of the longevity of our teeth. While we take steps to help our patients avoid tooth loss, we also have solutions that restore optimal structure, such as dental bridges.
Bridgework: The Basics
There are numerous advantages to getting a dental bridge. Before we can discuss them, though, we must describe what a dental bridge is. This long-term restoration is similar to a partial denture. It looks just about the same before we install it. Where the bridge differs is in its security. A partial denture typically attaches to adjacent teeth with some type of hook that allows for removal. Most of the patients we treat with a dental bridge choose a fixed restoration that remains in place using dental crowns.
Dental bridge treatment involves reducing two teeth so they can hold a dental crown. These two teeth then act as anchors for the artificial tooth or teeth that will sit on top of the gums where a natural tooth once existed. Once installed, a dental bridge looks and acts just like real teeth. With proper care, this fixture can last 15 years or more.
Advantages of a Dental Bridge
Tooth replacement may be achieved with partial dentures, dental implants, or a dental bridge. While implants do tend to offer more longevity and security than a conventional bridge, there are advantages to this tried-and-true method of tooth replacement. A dental bridge can:
- Preserve the balance of your bite
- Close a large gap where the natural tooth once existed
- Preserve the shape of the midface
- Prevent the shifting of nearby teeth
- Restore your ability to chew efficiently
Contact our office in Golden, CO to learn more about the value of a dental bridge for your best smile. Contact us online or call (303) 277-9600.
