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A beautiful smile can boost your confidence. However, damaged or missing teeth can make it hard to feel great about your smile. Thankfully, dental bridges provide a solution to this issue by replacing damaged or missing teeth with prosthetics that naturally blend with your other teeth. A dentist Dexter MI can walk you through how you can benefit from dental bridges and what you can expect from them.
What are Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth. They are composed of artificial teeth that dental crowns hold in place. The crowns are attached to your natural teeth or implants adjacent to a gap. Aside from restoring missing teeth, dental bridges can improve the function of your teeth and enhance your smile.
When it comes to dental bridges, there are several options you can choose from. These include traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges, and cantilever bridges. Every kind has unique benefits and characteristics and the right option for you depends on different factors like the location of your missing teeth, your budget and preferences, as well as the condition of your gums and adjacent teeth. A dentist can provide custom-made dental bridges for every patient to guarantee optimal fit, aesthetics, and comfort.
Dental Bridge Benefits
Aside from the aesthetic benefits of dental bridges, they are also chosen for their ability to restore proper speech and chewing. Dental bridges can maintain your facial shape and prevent the rest of your teeth from shifting towards the gap. They distribute bite forces properly by giving new teeth and ensuring the remaining teeth are not overloaded. With proper care, bridges can last for several years, which makes them a long-term dental solution for missing teeth.
How to Care for Dental Bridges
To ensure your dental bridges last for a long time, you must care for them properly. Just like your natural teeth, dental bridges must be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent issues like decay. Brush them twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This is important to get rid of food particles and plaque. Also, you should floss between your dental bridges and the surrounding teeth to eliminate any buildup that can result in gum disease.
Additionally, regular dental cleanings and checkups are necessary to evaluate the condition of the bridges and spot issues early on. This allows your dentist to address any issue while they are still manageable without requiring extensive treatment.
