Dental bridges typically involve the use of an artificial tooth anchored by two crowns on either side of your missing tooth to close the gap. Dental bridges also help to prevent teeth shifting that occurs with missing teeth, and make your smile complete and whole again by replacing the missing tooth. A bridge restores your smile and boosts your confidence because the artificial tooth and crowns will match your natural teeth and enhance the function of your smile! But who qualifies for a dental bridge, and is a dental bridge right for you? Let’s find out!
You’re Missing One or More Consecutive Teeth
People who make excellent candidates for dental bridges often have one or more teeth missing consecutively from one area in their mouth. You could have one missing tooth, or even up to three in a row missing—either way, you could make a great dental bridge candidate. This is because dental bridges effectively “bridge” the gap between teeth, even if you’re missing more than one tooth. However, dental bridges usually aren’t an option when you’re missing more than three consecutive teeth in one area. When you’re missing a few teeth, talk with your dentist about whether or not a dental bridge could restore your smile!
You Have Healthy Teeth
Dental bridges need healthy teeth on either side of the missing spaces in your mouth in order to be successful. This is because these teeth will essentially support the dental bridge and securely anchor it for years to come—dental bridges typically last around six years, but can last even longer if you take great care of your smile! Having dental bridges requires that you take excellent care of your teeth.
If you have tooth decay or gum disease surrounding the teeth or tissues near your missing teeth, you won’t be able to qualify for dental implants until these conditions have been treated. If your teeth aren’t in great shape but you have enough jaw bone, you may qualify for implant-supported bridges, which take advantage of dental implants in order to properly support the bridge!
You Don’t Like the Idea of Dentures
Dental bridges are essentially “fixed” dentures, meaning they are permanently adhered to your teeth and not meant to come out. However, partial dentures are also an option for patients that are missing one or more teeth. Partial dentures are typically removable, require some extra cleaning, and tend to not be as secure as dental implants or dental bridges.
If you dislike the idea of having a partial denture, consider dental bridges. If you’re a candidate for a partial denture, you may also qualify for a dental bridge, which provides more security than partial dentures but without the need for oral surgery like dental implants!
A dental bridge could be the solution to your missing teeth! Dental bridges effectively close gaps, match your natural teeth, and prevent the uncomfortable and unsightly shifting that can come with missing teeth. Talk to your dentist about whether or not a dental bridge would be right for you—they can conduct a thorough evaluation and talk through all your options with you!
