Missing teeth can be a problem. The gap in your smile may make you feel self-conscious about your appearance, but there other issues to consider. Missing teeth can make it difficult for you to eat and speak, but moreover, missing teeth provide extra places for bacteria to breed and for plaque to build up. Missing teeth also allow your remaining teeth to shift out of alignment, which can result in problems with your bite and damage and decay to your teeth.
Not everyone is comfortable wearing dentures. While dental implants are very popular and very good restoration option, certain medical conditions may mean that a person will not be a good implant candidate. If dentures or implants are not good choices for you, the dentist may suggest that you have a bridge placed.
When the dentist places a bridge, they will use the tooth on each end of the gap as anchors. Those two teeth will be filed down to the dentin to accommodate a crown. An impression will be taken of the area and sent to a dental lab where your new bridge will be created. In the meantime, the dentist will give you temporary crowns and a bridge. When the new bridge is ready, the dentist will place it in your mouth and attach it to the permanent crowns.
If you take proper care of your bridge you will can last from five to seven years. You should bush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once day. It is very important that you floss under the bridge, which can be done by using a floss threader. Doing so will remove the food particles that can cause tooth decay. Seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and exams will is also important to make sure that your bridge, along with the rest of your teeth and your gums remain healthy.
If you would like to find out more about restoring your smile with a dental bridge, our dentist, Dr. Sean Ferguson would love to see you. If you live in the Concord, North Carolina area, call 704-786-8317 for an appointment. We look forward to helping you to restore your smile!