As their name implies, dental bridges are an effective way to “bridge” the gap between missing teeth. They use existing teeth on either side of the missing tooth/teeth as anchors, which they’re firmly secured to. Once fitted, artificial replacement teeth will be positioned perfectly in the spaces of the missing teeth, creating the appearance of a healthy and complete smile.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Bridges?
There are many options for replacing lost or heavily damaged teeth, including implants and dentures. But bridges are a cost-effective option for many patients who want an effective solution for restoring their smiles.
The best candidates are those who meet the following criteria:
They have healthy and strong teeth surrounding their missing teeth—Because bridges must be anchored to existing teeth, candidates must have teeth that are strong enough to handle the added stress.
They are missing only one tooth or a small number of teeth—Bridges are best suited for patients who only need to replace a single tooth or a small number of teeth. Patients with several missing teeth or who have severe dental problems are often better served with dental implants or dentures.
They have good dental hygiene habits—In addition to needing strong anchor teeth with healthy roots, patients also must have good dental hygiene. Attaching anchors to existing teeth can cause some enamel loss and create opportunities for food particles to become trapped. That makes regular brushing and flossing even more important.
Looking to Replace Lost Teeth in Clarksville? Call 101st Adult Dentistry.
At 101st Adult Dentistry, we know how devastating it can be to lose a tooth or even multiple teeth. That’s why we’re proud to offer solutions such as dental bridges to patients like you. Request a dental appointment today!