General dentists are responsible for restoring and replacing teeth that are lost due to decay or accidents. Unfortunately, the teeth are prone to both, making it so that treatment is necessary. A common treatment used in general dentistry for tooth restoration and replacement is a dental bridge. Having a dental bridge placed can make life a lot easier and improve oral health quite a bit. Continue reading to find out when and how they are used.
Below is an overview of dental bridges, including what they are and when general dentists recommend them. This information can be helpful to understand, especially for those who think they require a restoration.
When teeth are in bad shape due to decay, a general dentist will of course attempt to salvage and restore them. However, in some severe cases, the tooth may have to be extracted. The result is an empty space, which will require something to be placed in order to avoid damage to the gums, shifting of the adjacent teeth, or other oral health problems. When this happens, the dentist may likely recommend a dental bridge. The bridge acts as a replacement for the decayed tooth.
General dentists most commonly recommend dental bridges for individuals who have missing teeth. They work best when there is a single missing tooth spaced between two other remaining teeth. Because a bridge literally bridges the gap between two other teeth, this works out well for singular missing teeth.
Compared to other tooth replacement options, dental bridges require less work. The procedure itself is not terribly invasive, and there are not as many appointments required. Of course, the piece is custom made, which can take a couple of weeks maximum; however, outside of that, it is a relatively simple and straightforward process.
It is also good to know that a general dentist may not always recommend a dental bridge. The adjacent teeth on either side of the empty space have to be healthy, sturdy, and evenly aligned in order for a dental bridge to be successful. If these qualifications are not met then another type of treatment may be advised, such as a dental implant and crown combination.
Additionally, after a dental bridge is placed, it is important to understand that while it acts like a natural tooth, it is a prosthetic piece, which requires extra care and handling. Good oral hygiene and avoiding sticky and hard foods can go a long way in keeping the bridge intact.
Dental bridges can be quite beneficial for oral health. The first step to getting started is to talk directly with a general dentist. Any questions or concerns about the process can be appropriately addressed, and an evaluation can be performed. To learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today.
Request an appointment here: https://hydepark.smilestudiochicago.com or call Hyde Park Smile Studio at (773) 232-1973 for an appointment in our Chicago office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Chicago, IL.
General dentists are the most common type of dental professional. They see patients of all ages and focus their efforts on providing primary dental care. One treatment that falls under primary dental care is braces. Braces are used to correct uneven bites and realign crooked teeth. With the help of a general dentist, treatment can…
In recent years, more patients have been asking general dentist professionals about straighter teeth. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the last decades. Patients may think that traditional braces are the only option, but clear aligners and appliance therapy are also available now. When having this conversation, it is important that patients discuss…
Despite what many people think, a general dentist wants to see strong, healthy teeth when patients come into the office. Dentists are, in fact, the most prominent champions of clean and cavity-free teeth; they work to educate patients and community members about proper oral care techniques and cleaning practices. With the right level of care,…
Persistent oral pain or extensive decay may send a patient to a general dentist, who must then advise whether the patient should try to save the tooth or have it pulled. To save the tooth, a root canal procedure may be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp of the tooth and replacing it with…
Seeing a preventive dentist does not usually take more than an hour. It is an…
Gum disease treatment is necessary if infection-causing bacteria invade the oral cavity. Without prompt treatment,…
A smile makeover is a cosmetic process that alters the aesthetic of the smile without…
One of the primary concerns that often develops after a traumatic incident is the development…
Learn why a denture adjustment is needed when you have sore spots in your mouth.…
Tooth-colored dental fillings are the popular way to fill up cavities these days. Silver amalgam…
