Are Dental Bridges Removable?
If you’ve lost a tooth, it can be difficult to return to your normal daily activities. You might find yourself avoiding social situations or being self-conscious about your smile. One way to resolve this problem is to get a dental bridge in Burlington, ON.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are a common choice to restore your smile if you’re missing a single tooth. A bridge is a tooth-supported fixed prosthesis that replaces one or more missing teeth by using two or more teeth as abutments (supporting structures).
When you lose one of your natural teeth, the remaining teeth move into the gap left behind and shift slightly to fill the space where one used to be. Dental bridges take advantage of this movement and place an artificial tooth on either side of this gap to fit securely into place regardless of what else happens around them. Even though they don’t move as real ones do, they still need something solid for them not only to stay put but also to feel like part of your mouth!
Are There Removable Dental Bridges?
Traditional bridges are permanently bonded to the anchoring teeth. They’re not removable, which can make them more difficult to clean than regular teeth since they’re attached to artificial roots that are often not as strong as your natural ones.
These bridges come in different types:
- “Resin-retained bridge” is one type.
Resin-retained bridges are a popular option for patients who want a long-lasting solution that’s easy on the wallet. A resin-retained bridge is typically made from two crowns cemented together to serve as the anchor for your artificial tooth.
- Maryland Bridge
This tooth bridge is made of a porcelain framework and bonded to the teeth using a resin material.
What are Removable Dental Bridges?
Removable dental bridges are also referred to as partial dentures. They can complete your bite and improve your smile, but they are convenient and affordable.
How are Dental Bridges Fixed on the Teeth?
Dental bridges are fixed to the teeth on either side of a gap. To prepare for dental bridge treatment, your dentist will remove any decay from the tooth and ensure enough healthy tooth left for a crown (for example, if you want to wear a dental bridge that covers more than one missing tooth). Then he will create an impression of your teeth which they use to make custom-made bridges.
A dentist will place temporary cement on this frame while you wait for your permanent restoration to be made by a laboratory technician. Once done, he will remove this temporary cement before bonding the new dental bridge permanently with special adhesives designed not to irritate your mouth.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
You can expect a dental bridge to last anywhere from five to 10 years, depending on how you take care of it. A well-made dental bridge will last longer than dentures, which require regular replacement every three to five years because they’re worn down by your mouth’s natural processes and general wear and tear.
Dental bridges are less likely to break or need repair than dentures, so they’re more durable in the long run. If a piece of your dental bridge breaks off, have it repaired right away to prevent complications.
How Can You Care for Your Dental Bridges?
To care for your dental bridges and keep them looking their best, it’s important to:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. If you have bristles sticking out from your toothbrush, they can scratch the porcelain on your dental bridge and cause damage.
- Use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps prevent cavities and strengthens enamel, so using fluoride toothpaste is always recommended—but it’s especially important if you have dental work like porcelain veneers or crowns to keep those surfaces strong while they’re in place.
- Floss daily! This will help remove food particles that get trapped between teeth and under bridges where you can’t see them with regular brushing alone—bacteria left in these places may lead to gum disease or other problems down the road.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re interested in getting a dental bridge, fixed or removable, visit Walkers Line Dental Centre for more information about what kind would work best for your individual situation.4