BRIDGES
What is a bridge?
A bridge is a dental restoration that replaces or spans the space where one or more teeth have been lost. The loss of a tooth may cause your mouth to “sink” from loss of the bone that supported the tooth. Remaining teeth can also shift. The result may be lost function and a face that looks older than it should. A bridge helps support your lips and cheeks and helps maintain the natural shape of your face.
What if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be particularly self-conscious about your appearance. And when teeth are missing, it’s difficult to chew. Teeth work together. When a tooth is lost, the nearby teeth may tilt into the empty space or the teeth in the opposite jaw may shift up or down towards the space. This can affect your bite and place unusual stress on your teeth. Chewing on one side only may cause extra stress on your jaw joints. A missing tooth also results in “shrinking” of the jawbone. This can change how the lips or cheeks are supported.
Teeth that have tipped or rifted are often difficult to clean. This makes them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. In the long run, more teeth may be lost.
How is a bridge attached?
A fixed bridge is commonly cemented to the natural teeth next to the space left by the missing teeth. A false tooth (called a pontic) replaces the lost tooth or teeth. A pontic is attached to a crown (a restoration that covers a tooth). Crowns, which are cemented on natural teeth, provide support for the bridge.
Are there different types of bridges?
Yes. Dental implants attach artificial teeth directly into the jaw. Because surgery is required, candidates for dental implants should have good general health and have adequate jawbone to support an implant. For some patients, implants can help preserve the jawbone where teeth have been lost.
What materials are used in a bridge?
Bridges are made from metal, ceramics, or a combination. Ceramics often are bonded to metal alloy. The dentist considers the appearance and function of the bridge and can discuss the materials best suited for you.
Caring for your bridge
It’s important to keep your teeth and gums healthy. A bridge can lose its support if the surrounding teeth or jawbone holding the bridge become damaged by dental disease. Brush twice a day and floss or use an interdental cleaner, cleaning between your teeth and under the bridge. Interdental cleaners are specially shaped brushes as well as rubber, plastic or wooden devices. These measures help remove a sticky film of bacteria called plaque. While it is not a substitute for flossing, a useful tool in addition to floss is a water jet.
Take care to clean the areas under, around and between the bridge and your natural teeth. Dental floss threaders and special brushes can help you reach these areas. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential to your good oral health.
Dr. Fakhimi is a highly skilled cosmetic dentist in San Diego. He has helped many Clairemont, La Jolla and San Diego porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, braces, root canal and dental implants patients achieve the look they desire. His cosmetic dentistry offices in San Diego are state of the art and receive patients from Clairemont, La Jolla, and the greater San Diego area.
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