When one or more teeth are absent in your mouth, it can adversely impact the appearance and the functionality of your smile. Missing teeth can make biting and eating difficult, impair your speech and cause shifting of your teeth and temporomandibular joint disorder.
What is a Dental Bridge?
As the name suggests, a dental bridge, bridges the gap that forms when you lose one or more teeth. This treatment option consists of artificial teeth—pontics. These replacement teeth are constructed of porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. In terms of the fit of the dental bridge, the more precious the metal is, the better the fit of the bridge is. The most popular material metal used for dental bridges is gold.
What Types of Dental Bridges Near You Are There?
Here are the three types of dental bridges in Winnipeg that are available:
- Traditional Dental Bridges: These are fixed dental bridges, meaning they are not removable. They are widely used and require the dentist near you to shape the teeth that neighbour the missing tooth.
- Resin Bonded Dental Bridges: These are more cost-effective and are preferred for teeth that are the most visible in the mouth—the front teeth. When compared to traditional dental bridges, less preparation of the neighbouring teeth performed by your dentist in Winnipeg is required.
- Cantilever Dental Bridges: This type of dental bridge is used when there is only one adjacent tooth surrounding the absent tooth. Cantilever dental bridges are used for areas in your mouth that are not under extreme strain.
Do You Qualify as a Candidate for Dental Bridges?
Your dentist will determine if you qualify as a candidate for dental bridges near you. To be a suitable candidate for dental bridges, you will need to be in good general health and have adequate bone to support the dental bridges. Your teeth should be strong and your gums should be healthy. If your neighbouring teeth are weak or damaged, your dentist will need to treat them first before you begin replacing your missing tooth or teeth.
What is the Procedure for Dental Bridges?
Before your dentist begins treating the affected area, they will first administer local anaesthesia to numb the area and prevent discomfort. Next, they will file and shape the teeth that surround your absent tooth. Your dentist will remove any excess enamel to make room for the crown. Then, your dentist will place the crowns on these teeth. These crowns serve as support to the artificial teeth that must be inserted. Lastly, your dentist will place the artificial tooth. Completing the procedure typically requires two appointments.
How Do You Care for Dental Bridges?
Once you receive dental bridges, expect to experience some discomfort during the first few days following the procedure. Your mouth and gums must acclimate to the bridge until conditions begin to feel normal. Continue brushing your teeth and don’t forget to brush under your bridge. As always, you should maintain visits with your dentist every six months or sooner for a dental checkup and professional dental cleaning. Additionally, eat a balanced diet and try to bite and chew as gently as possible.
What are the Benefits of Dental Bridges?
There are numerous benefits to choosing dental bridges in Winnipeg. Here are the primary advantages of dental bridges near you:
- They are permanently fixed, meaning you won’t need to remove them to clean them.
- They can last for a minimum of 10 to 15 years with the correct care and maintenance.
- The process of fitting dental bridges is brief and painless.
- They help to maintain the structure and shape of your face.
- They help restore the aesthetics of your smile.
Dental Bridges Near You
To learn more about acquiring dental bridges near you, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Winnipeg.