Dental Bridges: Uses and What Makes a Good Candidate
An accidental fall, a traumatic injury, illness, or genetics - there are numerous reasons why a person may be missing one or several teeth. While a gap-toothed grin can be endearing in children, the charm often wears off as an adult. At South Ogden Smiles, Dr. Patrick Tanner and his attentive staff believe that everyone deserves personalized care to find the best solution possible for a lifetime of good dental health. In the case of broken or missing teeth, a dental bridge may be the best option.
Dental Bridge Uses
A dental bridge is an apparatus that is used in combination with crowns to fill gaps in the mouth left by missing teeth - in other words, it is a structure that bridges the gap between existing teeth. Dental bridges use the patient’s natural teeth on either side of the gap as “abutment” or anchor teeth.
A dental bridge has many uses. The most immediately noticeable one being the cosmetic difference that it makes for patients who are missing one or several teeth - in addition to closing the gap in between teeth, a bridge can fill out and restore a patient’s natural face shape. But a dental bridge is far more than just a cosmetic dentistry procedure. Missing teeth can make chewing food and speaking clearly more difficult, and can even cause a chewing misalignment that can lead to jaw pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and even shifting teeth over time. A properly fitted dental bridge can restore proper alignment to a patient’s bite and prevent pain and further dental problems before they arise.
What Makes Me a Good Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
Dental bridges can be the perfect solution for a patient who wants to solve the cosmetic and functional problems that come with missing teeth. But not everyone is a strong candidate for a dental bridge. How do you know if you qualify?
To be considered as a candidate for a dental bridge, you must have a tooth on either side of the gap that are strong with solid roots, as these teeth will effectively serve as the anchors for the dental bridge. The two anchor teeth must not only have strong roots, but they should be healthy as well with no signs of cavities or other problems. If patients do not have existing healthy teeth adjacent to the gap, the bridge can be held in place with dental implants.
If Dr. Tanner decides that you are a good candidate for a dental bridge, you can proceed with a treatment plan from there. If you are not an ideal candidate, you may discuss good alternative restorative dentistry options like dental implants.
Contact South Ogden Smiles about Restorative Dentistry Today
Dr. Tanner at South Ogden Smiles believes in a holistic approach to dental health, knowing that a full healthy smile can make all the difference in your confidence and how you approach every aspect of your life. Contact our South Ogden restorative dentistry practice today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tanner and discuss whether a dental bridge is the right option for you.
