Restorative dentistry has many tools for replacing missing teeth
and restoring smiles. Among these tools are full dentures, partial dentures,
dental implants, dental crowns, and even dental bridges. Of these dental
devices, dental bridges may be among the least talked about, so to ensure that
you are up to speed on the role of a dental
bridge in restoring a smile, your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Quinn Smith, is taking a closer look at the function of
dental bridges below.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like: a device
that helps to fill in a gap. In restorative dentistry, dental bridges are used
to fill in a single gap in a smile created by tooth loss. Standard bridges feature
prosthetic teeth that are attached to two stabilizing dental crowns, each of
which is fitted over the tooth on either edge of the gap. With the bridge in
place, the gap is filled, restoring the smile.
What Benefits Do Dental Bridges Offer Patients
In addition to filling in gaps to improve the appearance of
a smile, dental bridges help to protect the remaining teeth in the mouth. When
all teeth are present and healthy, they protect one another’s flanks, much like
a well-trained army. However, when teeth are lost and gaps form, bacteria can
attack the exposed sides of teeth more easily, making tooth decay more likely.
With a dental bridge in place, however, teeth are once again protected, and
they are unable to drift into the open space offered by the gap, preventing alignment
problems.
Dental Bridges and Dental Implants
Although standard dental bridges are stabilized by dental
crowns, patients can opt for implant-supported bridges. For these restorations,
dental crowns are no longer necessary for stability. Instead, dental implants
will anchor the bridge into the jawbone to prevent any movement.
Schedule a Visit with Your Grand Prairie Dentist
Has tooth loss created a gap in your smile? Are you in need
of a dental bridge? If so, contact our
75052 dental office to schedule an appointment or a consultation with your Grand Prairie dentist, Dr. Smith, today
by calling 972-262-5111. We welcome patients from Grand Prairie, Arlington,
South Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and surrounding communities.
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