Bridges
Tooth loss has many causes. The most common cause is gum disease, but it can also be caused by issues such as facial trauma and severe tooth decay. Even if you lose only one tooth, this event can have a significant impact on your oral health and your quality of life. Replacing a missing tooth is essential. Sussex Dental can restore a missing tooth with a bridge.
What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?There are several things that happen when you lose even just one tooth:• |
If the tooth is toward the front of your mouth, it can have a significant impact on your confidence, and your smile.
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A space makes it easier for food, bacteria, and other debris to get trapped, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
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Additional pressure is placed on your adjacent teeth, increasing the risk of tooth damage.
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Eating becomes more challenging. Additionally, improper chewing can lead to poor digestion and nutrition.
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Your speech can be impacted. You may develop a lisp.
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The adjacent teeth begin to shift out of alignment, which alters your bite. This can lead to issues such as bruxism and TMJ disorder. |
Bridges for Tooth ReplacementA bridge is a common treatment for replacing a missing tooth, although it can be used to replace up to 3. There are a few different types of bridges available, but the fixed bridge is the most common. A fixed bridge is typically made from a single piece of ceramic. The replacement tooth, or pontic tooth, is surrounded on each side by a crown. The crowns are there to attach the bridge to the teeth adjacent to the empty space. Known as the abutment teeth, these teeth anchor the bridge securely into place.
Why a Bridge?There are several benefits associated with a bridge.• |
You can bite and chew more effectively. Not only does this allow you to eat your favorite foods again, but it also helps to restore proper digestion and improves your overall nutrition.
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You can speak normally again.
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Your oral health is improved.
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Your adjacent teeth are held in proper alignment, which prevents shifting. |
Getting Your BridgeThe process for getting your bridge generally takes two appointments. At your first appointment, we prepare the abutment teeth and take impressions. Preparing the abutment teeth is exactly like the process for preparing a tooth for a crown. These preparations, done under a local anesthetic, involve removing a portion of the enamel from each tooth to reduce them in size. This creates the space necessary for your bridge to fit comfortably and naturally. After the teeth are prepared, we then take an impression. The impression is sent to our dental lab, where the bridge is custom designed. Once it is completed and has been sent back, we then check it for proper fit and for bite. If no adjustments are needed, the restoration is bonded into place. If you are missing a tooth, a bridge can help to restore its functions, your oral health, and your quality of life. For more information, and to schedule your consultation, call Sussex Dental today at (262) 246-6806. |