Think of a bridge as a replacement tooth that sits between other teeth. The artificial tooth is called a pontic. The dental bridge sits in the space and receives support from nearby teeth or dental implants.<\/p>\r\n
The dental bridge idea is simple. The dentist creates a bridge that matches the shape and colour of natural teeth. The dentist secures the bridge so that the dental bridge does not move while you eat or speak.<\/p>\r\n
The way a dental bridge stays in place depends on the type of bridge you have chosen. A traditional dental bridge uses crowns placed over the teeth beside the gap. Those teeth act like supports holding the bridge between them.<\/p>\r\n
An implant\u2011supported dental bridge works differently. Dental implants provide the support of natural teeth. Because the implant sits in the jaw the dental bridge has a base without relying on the teeth next to the gap.<\/p>\r\n
The dentist first checks the space and the teeth around it. The dentist also looks at gums and bone condition. If you are getting a dental bridge the supporting teeth are prepared so that crowns can fit properly.<\/p>\r\n
Impressions or digital scans are then taken. These give the laboratory the information needed to make a dental bridge that fits your mouth. A temporary dental bridge may be placed while the permanent dental bridge is being made.<\/p>\r\n
The dental bridge needs cleaning because food can collect around and underneath it. Normal brushing remains important.. You also need to clean beneath the dental bridge, where an ordinary toothbrush cannot reach properly.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 Flossing beneath the bridge takes a little practice but a floss threader makes the job much less fiddly.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 Brush around the supporting teeth carefully. Those teeth still need protection from decay.<\/p>\r\n
\u2022 Gums also matter, around the edges of the dental bridge where plaque can build up.<\/p>\r\n
A well\u2011maintained dental bridge can last years, but there is no fixed lifespan for everyone. The condition of the supporting teeth matters. Your cleaning routine and the amount of pressure the dental bridge receives matter.<\/p>\r\n
If you grind teeth at night for example the dentist may recommend protection for the bridge. That is worth taking. Replacing the bridge is not an easy weekend project.<\/p>\r\n
Visit our page on composite bonding London<\/strong><\/a> to explore treatment options, costs, and expert advice.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"