A Cosmetic Dentist Goes Over the Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are one of the options available if you are looking to replace lost teeth. A dental bridge is a tooth replacement that involves fixing a false tooth (called a pontic) between adjacent healthy teeth. To connect the bridge, the cosmetic dentist will grind down a layer of the healthy teeth and fit a crown over them to support the pontic. Alternatively, the dentist can use a resin-bonded bridge to connect the pontic to avoid grinding down nearby teeth. Both methods function the same way. The following are some of the pros and cons of dental bridges.

Pros of dental bridges

Dental bridges have a variety of advantages. Here are four of the most prominent.

Natural appearance

Dental bridges are customizable to look and feel like natural teeth. It will be hard to tell the difference between the bridge and the surrounding teeth after the procedure, so patients can smile confidently without worrying about the appearance of their smile.

Stability

Unlike regular dentures, fixed bridges are made to stay in the mouth permanently. This means patients do not need to remove the restoration for cleaning; brushing and flossing can be done as usual. Bridges are generally strong enough to withstand regular chewing and biting, just like natural teeth. With proper maintenance, they can survive between 5 to 15 years of regular usage.

Cost-effectiveness

Compared to other options such as dental implants, dental bridges are an inexpensive option for replacing a lost tooth. Patients who are budget-conscious but still want a high-quality option should consider a bridge.

Customization

During the fabrication process, the cosmetic dentist takes an impression of the patient’s teeth. This is to create a restoration that fits the individual patient perfectly and looks natural.

Cons of dental bridges

While dental bridges are a popular tooth replacement method, they are not without their drawbacks. Below are four of the most notable ones.

Difficult cleaning

Since the pontic and two healthy teeth are connected, cleaning the dental bridge can be challenging. It is impossible to floss too. Cleaning the bridge is important for durability and oral health, however. The dentist can provide suitable cleaning methods.

Effect on healthy teeth

Since part of the healthy tooth structure is lost during the placement procedure, some patients may find this worrying. However, the process does not have negative effects on overall oral health.

Not totally permanent

Although bridges can last up to 10 years, not everyone finds the idea of replacing their dental bridge every decade exciting. Patients who think this procedure could be disruptive to their routine might consider other, more permanent restorations such as dental implants.

A weaker bond

If resin material is used to attach the bridge, the dental restoration may not be as durable. This could lead to the need for repairs and additional office visits.

Final note

If you are considering tooth replacement options, dental bridges should be on your list. They work effectively and have a cosmetically appealing look. If you want to learn more about the process, book a consultation with a cosmetic dentist today.

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