The impact of tooth loss on both dental health and personal appearance cannot be understated. When one or more teeth go missing, it can set off a chain reaction leading to teeth shifting out of their proper alignment, potentially resulting in changes to your bite, further tooth loss, decay and gum disease. In situations where tooth loss occurs, Dr. Jai V. Patel, DDS and Dr. Rahil H. Patel, DDS may recommend the installation of a bridge. A bridge is designed to replace missing teeth while providing support to adjacent teeth, and essentially consists of a series of interconnected crowns. Anchored in place by two crowns, a bridge serves to reduce the risk of gum disease, rectify bite irregularities and enhance speech.
The loss of even a single tooth can have a profound impact on your dental health and appearance. Your teeth are interdependent and rely on one another for proper alignment. When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can shift from their normal positions. The adjacent teeth and those from the opposing jaw often drift or tilt as well. These teeth become more vulnerable to decay and gum disease because they become harder to clean. This shifting and tilting can lead to alterations in your bite, potentially placing stress on your jaws, muscles and teeth. Ultimately, it may affect your ability to chew comfortably and your overall appearance.
In the event of tooth loss, our experienced dentist may suggest the placement of a bridge. A bridge consists of a replacement tooth or teeth attached to crowns on each side. This bridge is cemented to the teeth neighboring the gap, effectively replacing the missing tooth and preventing any further shifting.
The process of creating a bridge closely resembles that of crafting a dental crown. Bridges can be constructed from the same materials as crowns, including full porcelain, porcelain fused to metal or all metal. Typically, this process involves two appointments. During the initial visit, we will prepare the adjacent teeth to the gap for crown placement. An impression of the prepared teeth will be taken, and a temporary bridge will be securely affixed. Subsequently, during the follow-up appointment, we will meticulously fit and adjust the bridge before permanently cementing it in place.
Once the bridge is securely affixed, you can confidently indulge in your favorite foods. Bridgework not only helps maintain a youthful facial appearance by preventing the sunken cheeks often associated with missing teeth but also stabilizes the dental arch, giving you a more confident and radiant smile.
It is essential to remember that your new bridge will require special care when it comes to brushing and flossing. To ensure optimal oral health and maintain your bridgework:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush (ideally, an ultrasonic toothbrush).
- Floss daily, and our dentist may suggest a specific type of floss for hard-to-reach areas between the bridge and adjacent teeth.
- Schedule regular teeth cleaning appointments at the intervals recommended by Sugar Land Dental Associates.
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We are committed to restoring your smile, and invite you to contact us at 281-207-4161 to learn more about dental bridges in Sugar Land, Texas.