Minor tooth loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Losing one to three teeth could lead to trouble with your oral health, including a higher risk of TMJ disorder and a chance of further tooth loss. In order to help Brighton, MA, residents with missing teeth, we may prescribe a dental bridge. How do we create these prosthetics and what benefits will they offer our patients?
What Causes Tooth Loss?
As children, we lose our baby teeth and our permanent teeth then erupt, giving us the smile we’ll carry for the rest of our lives. But why do many of us begin to lose these permanent teeth? The causes could vary, as missing teeth may occur due to injury, advanced decay, or untreated dental infections. However, the most common cause is untreated periodontal disease. When we develop gum disease and don’t undergo routine care to manage the issue, the disease will grow more severe. Eventually, periodontitis develops, which attacks the tissues connecting your teeth and gums. People then begin to lose their teeth. Regardless of the cause, after filling the gap in your smile we will discuss ways of protecting your smile, from routine cleanings and restorations to custom-made mouthguards!
Creating Your Dental Prosthetic
The prosthetic will be custom-made. Not only does this ensure a comfortable fit, but a custom bridge will look natural and blend with the rest of your smile. We typically prescribe them to address between one and three lost teeth in a row. The prosthetic consists of the new teeth with crowns on either end. We then remove tooth structure from the teeth on each side of the gap in your smile. We attach the crowns to these teeth, which anchors the new ones firmly in place. With proper care and attention, a typical bridge lasts between 10 and 15 years. However, should we secure them using dental implants, they could potentially last much longer.
Addressing Your Tooth Loss
Addressing your missing teeth is vital for your overall oral health. Missing teeth could lead to trouble speaking clearly, difficulties eating, and increase the risk of misalignment and loss of jawbone density. Over time, this increases the risk of a variety of oral health concerns, from TMJ disorder and bruxism to further tooth loss and an aged appearance. If you have a gap in your smile due to tooth loss, please let us know!
Do You Have Questions About Bridges?
At Brighton Family Dental Group, we want to help you enjoy a full smile with a natural looking dental prosthetic. You can schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Villani or Dr. Kondrat by reaching out to our office at (617) 562-5210. We are proud to offer a range of dental services to patients from Brighton, Watertown, Cambridge, Brookline, Newton, and all neighboring communities.
