Are you missing one or multiple consecutive teeth?
It is important to replace a missing tooth or teeth because gaps in teeth can easily be filled by remaining teeth. Shifting teeth crowd together and make it difficult to clean. Spaces in the mouth that are difficult to clean are prone to tooth decay due to plaque buildup. Missing teeth can also lead to problems like bone loss, difficulty chewing, speech issues, bite irregularities, and facial sagging.
Dr. Shulman places dental bridges for restoring function and aesthetics to your smile after tooth loss. He works with patients on an individual basis when replacing teeth to give you back a smile that is natural looking and comfortable.
Dental bridges can be anchored by natural adjacent teeth or dental implants. When using existing teeth it is often necessary to place dental crowns for the most stable outcome. When used in conjunction with dental implants, dental bridges can be permanent, long-lasting replacements to missing teeth.
What are the benefits of dental bridges?
There are several benefits that dental bridges offer to patients with missing teeth. Dental bridges:
- Make it easier to bite and chew
- Evenly distribute your bite
- Prevent bone loss when secured by implants
- Maintain your facial structure
- Look and feel natural
If you want to replace your missing teeth with a permanent dental bridge, Dr. Drew Shulman will use dental implants for a secure and comfortable fit. The first stage of treatment will be the surgical implantation of the post which will serve as a new tooth root. This will require a healing period of several months, after which the permanent bridge is attached.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Am I a good candidate for an implant-secured dental bridge?
Most patients with missing and severely damaged teeth are candidates for dental implants. Your dentist will assess your oral health to determine if you have enough healthy bone and gum tissue needed for this procedure. If you do not qualify just yet, there are a range of treatments available to augment bone loss and create a stable foundation for the placement of an implant-supported bridge.
How do you care for a dental bridge?
A removable dental bridge should be removed and cleaned twice a day. They will require special care and should not be worn while you sleep. Implant-secured dental bridges on the other hand, can be maintained like your natural teeth. You will not need special products to maintain an implant-secured bridge.
Does getting a dental bridge placed hurt?
No, the process for getting a dental bridge placed does not cause pain. In fact, it will alleviate pain if you have already been wearing old bridges. Your mouth changes over time, so should your dental bridge to prevent pain from ill-fitting restorations.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Patients with dental bridges are usually told to avoid eating especially chewy or hard foods after getting their bridge to give their mouth time to adjust. They are supposed to function like natural teeth, so once you adjust to the new feeling you should be able to resume your regular diet.
Should you sleep with a dental bridge in?
At night patients are told to remove their bridge. This gives their mouth, gums and jaw a break period. Bridges may get plaque and bacteria caught around them. Removing your bridge at night also allows patients to clean the area thoroughly removing any bacteria that could cause infection.
Other Tooth Replacement Options
With the advancements in dental technology, technique, and materials, tooth replacement is more efficient, more comfortable and natural looking than ever before. Dr. Shulman offers a variety of treatment options for missing teeth, so that he can personalize your treatment plan so you receive optimal results.
While each option has many benefits, dental implants can be used in combination with all options for a more secure restoration.
Denture: Dentures have long been the go to for missing teeth. Used for patients who are missing all of their teeth on the upper or bottom jaw. Dentures are now more natural looking and can be better fit for comfort and increased chewing ability. Fixed dentures are even more secure with the use of dental implants.
Dental Implant: Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jaw. Once healed, dental implants fuse with your natural bone making a stable foundation for a dental restoration. For one missing tooth, a crown may be placed on the implant for a permanent and beautiful dental restoration.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation Today
Are you self-conscious about your missing teeth? Restore your oral health and the appearance of your smile today with a custom dental bridge. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Shulman at his Northeast Philadelphia dentist office, call (215) 372-1142.