If you are missing one or more teeth, it is very important to consider tooth replacement. Even just one missing tooth can continue to make an impact on the health of your mouth long after is gone. Missing teeth can limit your abilities with your mouth’s main functions, increase your risk of losing more teeth, and cause problems with your remaining teeth. Replacing your missing tooth or teeth with a prosthetic can help to prevent some of these potential problems. When considering options of tooth replacement, why and when should you choose a dental bridge?
A dental bridge can replace adjacent missing teeth that create a large gap; a dental bridge is very similar to an architectural bridge in function. A dental bridge is a row of one or more replacement teeth (referred to as pontics) anchored by a crown on either tooth surrounding the gap (referred to as abutment teeth). The crowns can rest upon dental implants instead of healthy teeth, if needed. A bridge is a good option when the missing teeth are adjacent to each other. If your missing teeth are spread out in your smile, your dentist may recommend partial or full dentures.
Bridges are often made of materials like zirconia or porcelain, which are both similar to natural teeth in durability and appearance. A bridge can restore your smile’s appearance. It can also restore your ability to bite, chew, and speak. A dental bridge can keep your natural teeth from shifting into the gap created by your missing teeth. It can also prevent too much wear on your other teeth that can happen when you overcompensate for missing teeth. Bridges anchored by dental implants can help to prevent potential bone loss in your jaw.
A dental bridge can restore the appearance and function of your smile. To schedule a consultation at Austin Prosthodontics, call 512-250-9444. We also proudly welcome patients from Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, and all surrounding Texas communities.