While full and partial dentures may be removable, we can address minor tooth loss with a fixed solution. If you have lost between one and three teeth then your Brighton, MA, dentist may place a dental bridge, which provides a lifelike replacement option that could last for many years. How do we create and place these fixed tooth loss solutions? What makes them look so natural?
The Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a perfect solution for addressing minor cases of missing teeth. Remember, when we don’t replace lost teeth, even if it’s a single missing tooth we’re talking about, the risk of misalignment and other oral health complications developing only increases. A bridge helps fill the gap for those with between one and three lost teeth. The prosthetic is held firmly in place with dental crowns, which are attached to the pontics (replacement teeth) and placed onto the natural teeth on each side of the gap. On average, they can last about 10 to 15 years with proper care and attention. Often, caring for your prosthetic is a simple as brushing and flossing daily, cleaning the spaces between the top of the gums and the bottom of the bridge, and making time for an exam and cleaning every six months.
Ensuring a Natural Appearance
We always take steps to ensure your new teeth with blend seamlessly with your smile. After all, we want you to feel proud to show off your smile! To design and craft the bridge, we begin by removing structure from the natural teeth receiving the crowns. Next, we take detailed impressions and measurements, which help us fabricate the prosthetic. We often use ceramic to create the crowns and pontics. Not only is ceramic able to mimic the translucent nature of tooth enamel, but the material is stain-resistant, incredibly strong, and able to absorb bite force and pressure. We also shade the material to better match the color of surrounding teeth.
Preventing Missing Teeth
Did you know that often simple preventive care can help protect your smile from tooth loss? The major cause of adult tooth loss is untreated periodontal disease. When you brush and floss daily, avoid cigarettes and tobacco products, and see our office for regular cleanings and checkups, you take steps to prevent or manage gum disease, and keep your smile whole and healthy.
Do You Have Questions About Missing Teeth?
At Brighton Family Dental Group, we offer strong and natural-looking options for addressing minor tooth loss. 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, and all neighboring communities.
