A dental bridge is a solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. It involves placing a bridge of teeth that is supported by the adjacent healthy teeth on either side of the gap.
A dental bridge typically requires at least two supporting teeth, known as abutments, on either side of the gap, along with one or more false teeth to fill the space. The number of teeth in the bridge depends on the number of missing teeth and the condition of the adjacent teeth.
No, a dental bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis, meaning it remains in place once bonded with the supporting teeth. Dentists use various bonding materials, such as GIC, to secure the bridge. In rare cases, if necessary, a dentist can remove the bridge using specialized cutting instruments.
The process of fixing a dental bridge is generally painless. Preparing the teeth to anchor the bridge, known as abutments, may cause some discomfort, but it is typically done under local anesthesia. After the temporary bridge is placed, mild discomfort or pain may occur, which can be relieved with a mild analgesic.
A dental bridge requires at least one missing tooth and two adjacent teeth to support the false tooth. In cases where only one adjacent tooth is present, a cantilever bridge can be used. However, cantilever bridges are rarely used and are not recommended for the back of the mouth due to the risk of damaging the supporting tooth from excessive pressure.
A dental bridge typically lasts between 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as oral hygiene, regular cleaning, and consistent check-ups.
Signs that your bridge may be loosening include movement when touched by your fingers or tongue, sensitivity in the area where the bridge is placed, difficulty when chewing, and sometimes a bad taste in the mouth. If the supporting teeth or bone is damaged, the bridge may eventually fall out.
Yes, if the bridge is not fitted properly, the teeth underneath can become infected. Gaps or short margins between the abutments can allow bacteria and acids to damage the healthy teeth, potentially leading to pulp decay. This can affect the longevity of the bridge.
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