Bridging the Way to Better Oral Health: The Role of Dental Bridges | Blog
Bridging the Way to Better Oral Health: The Role of Dental Bridges

Bridging the Way to Better Oral Health: The Role of Dental Bridges

May 1, 2024

Oral health is crucial today, as our smiles convey more than our personalities. Dental Bridges in Northwest Calgary can be an ideal solution for those with missing teeth, restoring functionality and aesthetics. With their assistance, people can regain their confidence and general well-being, and it can serve as a ray of hope. 

Understanding Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges connect gaps left by missing teeth, improving oral function and appearance. Different types are available, but all serve the same purpose of filling the space. 

What are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to replace one or more lost teeth. They consist of artificial teeth, termed pontics, anchored in place by adjacent natural, original teeth or dental implants. By mending the gap left by missing teeth, dental bridges restore the integrity of your dental arch, preventing shifting and misalignment. 

Types of Dental Bridges

Different dental bridges exist, such as traditional, cantilever and Maryland bonded bridges. Traditional bridges involve crowns on adjacent natural teeth, while cantilever bridges are used when only one tooth is available for support. Maryland bonded bridges use metal or porcelain wings attached to neighboring teeth for support. 

How do Dental Bridges Work?

The functionality of dental bridges lies in their ability to copy the natural structure of teeth. By replacing missing teeth with artificial pontics, dental bridges restore the ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. Dental bridges help distribute bite forces evenly across the dental arch, preventing strain on remaining natural teeth and supporting structures.

The Importance of Dental Bridges in Restoring Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can be the reason behind more than just cosmetic issues. They can also cause some issues with your oral health and overall well-being. This includes jawbone deterioration, alignment issues, and even speech problems. Dental Bridges can help with these issues by restoring your bite’s functionality and confidence in your smile. They blend in with your original or natural teeth seamlessly, helping to restore your smile’s aesthetics and boost your self-esteem.

Consequences of Missing Teeth

Losing teeth can have severe effects on both oral health and general well-being. Besides the way it looks, having gaps between teeth can cause problems such as shifting surrounding teeth, changes in teeth fitting together, and an enhanced risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Not having teeth can also make it harder to chew correctly, resulting in a restricted diet and a lack of essential nutrients.

Role of Dental Bridges in Restoring Functionality

Dental bridges restore your bite functionality and prevent teeth from moving, preserving the integrity of your dental arch. They distribute bite forces evenly, reducing the strain on remaining natural teeth and supporting structures.

Impact on Aesthetics

Dental bridges improve the function and look of your smile by blending seamlessly with natural teeth, concealing imperfections, and enhancing confidence.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

To get dental bridges, see your dentist in NW Calgary. They’ll check your oral health and recommend the best options. The process involves preparing your teeth, taking impressions, customizing the bridge, and placing it precisely. Each step is done carefully to ensure the bridge fits well and works properly, giving you a great smile transformation.

Initial Consultation

The initial step for getting a dental bridge near me in NW Calgary is consulting your dentist. They’ll thoroughly examine your oral health, including X-rays and impressions. This assessment helps them determine the best way to substitute missing teeth and preserve your smile.

Preparation of Abutment Teeth

Once the decision to proceed with dental bridges is made, the next step is the preparation of abutment teeth. These natural teeth adjacent to the missing tooth or teeth will anchor the dental bridge. Your dentist will carefully reshape these teeth to accommodate dental crowns supporting the bridge.

Impressions and Customization

A custom-made dental bridge is created by taking impressions of your teeth and gums after the abutment teeth have been prepared. These imprints are delivered to a dental laboratory, where knowledgeable technicians use them to create a bridge that precisely fits your mouth. The bridge is carefully crafted to match your natural teeth’ color, shape, and size, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile.

Bridge Placement

When it’s time to place the dental bridge, your dentist will position it over the abutment teeth. They’ll adjust it for proper alignment and bite before bonding it securely to the abutment teeth. It completes the restoration process.

Maintaining Oral Health with Proper Care of Dental Bridges

Keeping your dental bridges in good condition requires a daily oral hygiene routine. It includes brushing, flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. You should also avoid hard or sticky foods and schedule regular dental check-ups. By doing so, you can ensure the longevity and stability of your dental bridges. Remember, taking good care of your teeth is essential to maintaining a healthy smile.

Exploring the Long-Term Benefits of Dental Bridges for Overall Oral Health

Dental bridges offer benefits beyond simple tooth replacement. They also provide long-term advantages for your general health and oral health. Dental bridges can preserve your facial structure and jawbone, preventing further bone loss and improving your appearance.

Additionally, they can improve your ability to chew and speak, contributing to a better quality of life. Finally, restoring a smile can have significant psychological benefits, giving you the confidence to smile and enjoy life to the fullest.

Conclusion

Dental Bridges are crucial in achieving a healthy smile and boosting confidence. This guide has highlighted their significance in restoring missing teeth and enhancing oral health. Remember to put your health first and ask your reliable dentist, Carrington Dental, for advice. Ready to take the first step towards a brighter smile? Contact us today for personalized advice and expert care. Let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams and enjoy a lifetime of oral health and happiness.