What are dental bridges, and when are they used by our dentist?

Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that are used to replace missing teeth. At Hilton Dental Clinic, our dentist Nottingham uses dental bridges to bridge gaps created by one or more missing teeth; however, these devices do rely on the surrounding teeth for support. Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth when other methods, such as dental implants, are not an option. Dental bridges may be recommended when:- there is insufficient bone density to support dental implants- there is insufficient gum tissue to support dental implants- a tooth has been lost due to decay or trauma, and there is no adjacent healthy tooth available to serve as an abutment- a malocclusion (bad bite) needs to be correctedWhat are dental bridges, and when are they used?A dental bridge is a type of false tooth that is anchored to the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap using anchoring wires, which are wrapped around the bases of the healthy teeth. Dental bridges are a form of partial denture best suited to replacing multiple teeth that are all in a row. The number of missing teeth that can be replaced with one bridge depends on the strength of the anchoring teeth and the overall health of the mouth.The process of getting a dental bridgeThere are several types of dental bridges, but the most common type is the fixed bridge. A fixed bridge is permanently attached to the implant abutments or either side of the missing teeth. The process of getting a dental bridge typically requires two visits to our dentist Nottingham. During the first visit, our dental team will take an impression of your teeth and send it to a lab. The lab will create a model of the teeth and send it back to us. During the second visit, we will fit and adjust the bridge and then attach it to the nearby teeth.The benefits of dental bridges are that they can:

1. Fill in gaps and restore your smile
2. Prevent other teeth from shifting out of position
3. Maintain the shape of your face
4. Reduce the risk of gum disease and tooth decay

How long do dental bridges last?Dental bridges are made up of two or more crowns, which are attached to either side of the missing tooth or teeth, and a pontic, which is the replacement tooth or teeth. Dental bridges can last anywhere from five to fifteen years, depending on how well they are taken care of.Tips for taking care of your dental bridgeIf you have a dental bridge, it is important to take care of it in order to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips for taking care of your dental bridge:- Be gentle when brushing your teeth; brushing too hard can damage your dental bridge- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing too close to the bridge- Floss regularly between your teeth and around the dental bridge- See our dentist Nottingham for regular checkups