The benefits and drawbacks of dental bridges
Dental bridges are a remedy for missing teeth and a highly effective solution. Tooth bridges, as they are also known, are artificial teeth that can be attached to dental implants or a combination of two or more crowns attached to nearby teeth. By cementing the false teeth to the crowns, which are then cemented to the adjacent teeth, bridges provide reliable and sturdy support. Despite the many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. Before opting for a tooth bridge to restore your smile, our private dentist in Llanelli wants you to know about the benefits and drawbacks.
The benefits of dental bridges
Achieve a beautiful and natural-looking smile
Dental bridges are often made of porcelain, which can be shaped and coloured to closely resemble natural teeth. Then your Dentist will match the colour and shape of your new teeth to the rest of your smile. Also, the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth/teeth will also receive a makeover. Then they will be filed down and replaced with a crown, restoring their health and appearance.
Tooth bridges are easy to place
If you want to see quick results when restoring your smile, dental bridges are an ideal option. This is because the process is relatively fast and straightforward, and most people only need two appointments. During the first visit, your Dentist will take impressions of your teeth and file your adjacent teeth to prepare them for crowns. Then the second appointment is for fitting the bridge.
Dental bridges are a comfortable solution
In addition to looking natural, tooth bridges are just as comfortable as real teeth. You can eat, speak, and chew normally without feeling self-conscious. So it shouldn’t take long to get used to your bridge, and it should feel comfortable as soon as the anaesthesia wears off.
Dental bridges can prevent bone loss
The bone underneath a lost tooth is no longer stimulated by biting and chewing. Then this can weaken your jawbone and eventually lead to bone loss. But by replacing your missing tooth/teeth with a bridge, your jawbone will remain just as strong as if your natural teeth were still in place.
Prevent your teeth from moving out of alignment
Tooth loss can cause misalignment, which occurs when your teeth start to shift into the gap left by the missing teeth. So using this treatment to fill the gap can prevent your teeth from moving out of alignment.
Bridges are easy to maintain
Unlike removable dental appliances, bridges don’t require you to take them out when you brush your teeth. You can simply brush your teeth and bridge as usual. As long as you maintain good oral hygiene and regularly visit your hygienist and Dentist, your bridge should be easy to care for.
Dental bridges can last many years
With good dental hygiene and proper care, dental bridges can last a long time. While most bridges last between five and 15 years, you can increase the lifespan of your new teeth by taking good care of them.
So dental bridges are perfect?
Yet, as with any dental treatment, there exist both pros and cons when it comes to dental bridges. Hence, before deciding whether or not to visit our private dentist in Llanelli and proceed with this restorative procedure, it is imperative to be well-informed about the benefits but also the drawbacks of dental bridges.
The drawbacks of dental bridges
Not a permanent solution
Although they may endure for over a decade, they will eventually require replacement. This is typically every 5 to 15 years, to maintain healthy oral hygiene and ensure the longevity of the bridge. Moreover, replacing the bridge can prevent wear and tear from damaging the teeth beneath the crowns.
Healthy teeth will need to be filed before fitting the bridge
As a result, your Dentist needs to file down the teeth adjacent to your missing teeth to enable the placement of the crowns. But once your teeth are filed, it’s a done deal, and you will always need to have a crown bonded to them.
Nerve damage is yet another rare but potential risk associated with dental bridges
The procedure can damage the nerves below your gums, leading to a possible need for root canal treatment in the future. However, it’s worth noting that only a small percentage of people experience nerve damage from this treatment.
Flossing can be challenging with dental bridges
Although maintaining dental bridges is usually straightforward, flossing can be a tad difficult. Unlike dental implants that are rooted in your gums, dental bridges are not. And as a result, plaque can accumulate between the underside of the bridge and your gums. So you may need to use specialised techniques and products to keep the underside of the bridge clean.
Conclusion
If you’re eager to replace your missing teeth and restore your beautiful smile, don’t hesitate to reach out to Murray Street today. Our amiable Llanelli Dentists can walk you through your options and help you get the ball rolling.
