dental bridge benefits

What Are the Benefits Of Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a long-term solution for replacing teeth that have been lost or damaged. Dental bridges are made up of several pieces that are fused together to fill in the gap created by your missing tooth or teeth. Partial dentures can also be replaced with dental bridges. Bridges can be used for practical and cosmetic objectives, allowing you to eat and speak more comfortably while also improving the appearance of your teeth! Continue reading below to learn more about the benefits of dental bridges!

Benefits Of Dental Bridges 

Dental bridges have many benefits for those who have lost or damaged teeth due to trauma or decay, including:

  • Regaining the ability to talk properly for those who struggle with speech due to missing teeth
  • Improving the look of your mouth and smile
  • Maintaining a normal facial shape by eliminating bone loss from the jaw where teeth are missing
  • Regaining the ability to chew food properly without pain
  • Preventing adjacent teeth from migrating into the empty area, which could cause biting issues and other consequences. 

Are Dental Bridges Right For Me? 

  1. One or More Permanent Teeth Are Missing

You may be a suitable candidate for a bridge if you have one or more teeth missing that are hurting your ability to speak, eat, or smile. A single bridge can replace up to four lost teeth in a row. A single bridge cannot be used to replace non-consecutive missing teeth. 

  1. Teeth On Either Side Of The Gap Are Strong And Healthy

The two teeth on each end of the missing tooth or teeth must be strong and healthy in order to support your bridge. Broken or decaying teeth will not provide adequate support for your bridge, meaning an alternative restorative dental procedure might better suit you.

  1. Your Jawbone Density Is Adequate

Dental bridges require a healthy jawbone for support. Without a healthy jawbone, the bridge may gradually loosen and fail. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you have a viable jawbone for dental bridges.

  1. You’re Dedicated To Keeping Your Mouth Healthy

It’s critical to maintain a high level of oral hygiene once you’ve received a dental bridge. This will ensure that your bridge lasts as long as possible while also preventing decay and deterioration surrounding it. A bridge will not protect you from getting dental problems. If decay does happen, it’s typically far harder to reach and fix when it’s beneath a dental bridge. 

Contact Gentle Dental Maine To Learn More!

If you have any questions about dental bridges or are looking into a restorative dentistry solution, don’t hesitate to contact Gentle Dental Maine! Our team of family dentists specializes in general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry services at each of our offices in South Portland, Biddeford, and Topsham. Give us a call at any one of our offices, or if you’re not yet a patient with us, please fill out the new patient form on our website!