How Can You Prepare Yourself For A Dental Bridge?
Your smile is an important part of your facial features, so you'll want it to look its best. If you need teeth restored, one option that may be recommended is a dental bridge. A dental bridge is a great alternative tooth replacement option and is beneficial in most circumstances. The following information can be helpful if you are considering a dental bridge to restore missing or broken teeth:
What Happens at Your Consultation?
When you first arrive at the consultation for your dental bridge, the dentist will fully evaluate your missing teeth to determine a treatment plan. The dentist also looks at the health of your other teeth to ensure that a dental bridge will be fully secure when attached to those teeth.
What Type of Bridge Is Best?
There is more than one type of dental bridge to choose from. A traditional dental bridge is placed in between the missing teeth to close up the gap in that area of the mouth. A crown-supported bridge is also an option. This type of bridge includes the placement of crowns on either side of the bridge to help it stay in place. There is also an implant-supported bridge option. For this bridge, tooth implants are placed on either side of the missing teeth. Once in place, the bridge is then affixed to the implants, creating a strong bond for the bridge.
Do Teeth Need to Be Removed?
In some cases, some teeth may need to be extracted to support the bridge. This is common in cases of decayed teeth or seriously damaged teeth.
How Are the Teeth Prepared for a Bridge?
The preparation needs for a bridge will depend on the type of bridge your dentist believes is best for you. If you are getting a crown-supported bridge, the teeth supporting the bridge will first need to be capped with the crown. Part of the tooth enamel will be removed, and any decay will be taken out before the crowns are placed. If you are choosing a dental implant bridge, the implants will need to be placed and fully healed prior to the bridge placement.
Are There Any Risks You Should Consider?
Although a dental bridge is a common procedure, there are some things you need to think about. You need to be comfortable and capable of getting surgery, particularly in the case of implant-supported bridges. There is always a chance for some discomfort with the procedure, but the dentist will make sure you are fully numb during the placement of the bridge. You will be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics after the procedure, but most discomfort can be treated with over-the-counter medication.