Natural-looking dental bridge from Worcester Park dentist replaces missing tooth
A dental bridge is an artificial dental substitute used to fill a gap in the dental arc caused by a missing tooth. It is constructed using a dental crown on either side of the gap attached to an artificial tooth, known as a pontic, which bridges them together.
Missing teeth can be the source of great embarrassment and can cause patients to suffer a loss of confidence and self-esteem. Missing teeth can also have a negative physiological impact. Hollows left by missing teeth can be breeding grounds for bacteria because they are difficult to clean with conventional brushes. Gaps in the dental arc can also cause other teeth to move about and lean altering the bite. This can cause painful jaw conditions known as TMJs and sub-conscious teeth grinding called bruxism.
Teeth also act as rigid supports for facial tissue, so if one or more teeth is missing it can cause sagging, which makes the patient look much older. This sagging becomes irreversible if not remedied within a certain time. Dental bridges can help maintain facial structure and limit alteration to voice and profile.
There are three types of dental bridge known as the traditional fixed bridge, the resin-bonded bridge and the cantilever bridge. Each bridge has a specific use depending on the condition of the existing teeth and position of the missing tooth in the arc. Bridges are made of a combination of metal, resin bonding and porcelain. For the more extroverted patient there is also the option of a silver or gold dental bridge.
A dental bridge is a natural looking alternative to a real tooth that can last up to ten years if properly maintained. Bridges should be brushed and flossed daily like normal teeth. It may also be necessary to avoid certain hard foods which may cause damage to the bridge. A dental bridge can usually be fitted in two appointments by a Worcester Park dentist and costs significantly less that some other dental substitutes such as dental implants.