dental bridgeWhen you are missing a tooth, it is essential to fill the space as soon as possible. While there are clear aesthetic benefits, replacing the tooth can also help maintain the health of your jawbone and mouth in general. There are numerous replacement options available and each one is used in specific situations. In today’s blog, your Newport Beach, CA, dentist discusses dental bridges, and how you can know when these will be the best option for you.

When You Need One

Dental bridges are typically used when someone has either a single missing tooth or several missing adjacent to one another. This is because bridges are frequently supported by existing teeth (known as abutments) that are outfitted with crowns to provide increased support. Because it is held in place by existing teeth, this option provides a long-lasting, permanent solution. Another option, if your dentist suggests it, is receiving an implant, which is a surgical procedure. Overall, your oral healthcare professional will suggest the option that best fits your needs.

How Are They Made?

Dental bridges are made from either porcelain that’s fused to metal or ceramics. Whichever material your dentist uses, it will be of the highest quality biocompatible material. This ensures your prosthetic is long-lasting and looks natural sitting amongst your natural teeth. Before your custom bridge is made, your dentist or dentist will take precisely detailed images of your mouth, so it will be crafted to your exact needs and oral specifications. This helps make sure that it fits securely and comfortably within your mouth. 

What Are The Benefits?

For starts, a dental bridge fills in the space left by a missing tooth. This can help increase your confidence in your smile and raise your general self-esteem — the importance of which cannot be overstated. It also helps ensure that you are staying as healthy as possible. When you are missing a tooth, your chewing can be severely affected, which can lead to you not receiving sufficient nutrition from the foods you eat. Moreover, when you are down a tooth, your jawbone doesn’t require the necessary stimulation to stay in peak health. Replacing the tooth helps mitigate the jaw’s decay and allows it to release key nutrients into your bloodstream.

Contact Us To Learn More About When You Might Need A Bridge

If you are missing a tooth, it is crucial to act quickly. The space can accumulate harmful bacteria, and you will have a harder time chewing — and even speaking. Whether you need a prosthetic or any other procedure, we are here to help you through the entire process. We appreciate our patients and always put them first. To ask questions or to schedule an appointment, please call Balboa Dental Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, today at 949-630-0143. We look forward to hearing from you.