A dental bridge is a series of artificial teeth. The bridgework is supported by an anchor on either side of the gap to hold the false tooth in place. With a bridge, we can restore one or more consecutive missing teeth. Dental bridge treatments are part of the restorative dentistry services Joseph P. Cavallo offers to the public in Woodbridge, VA.
A bridge can be supported by natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of the two. When natural teeth support the bridgework, we place a dental crown for additional support and stability.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
Dental bridges offer several benefits for patients missing one or more teeth. Of course, bridges fill the gap of your missing teeth. However, they can provide numerous benefits to your oral health.
Prevent Shifting Teeth
When a tooth is missing, the nearby teeth can gradually shift into the empty space. Bridges fill this gap and prevent this shifting. As a result, it can prevent misalignment and bite problems.
Protect Remaining Teeth
Bridges distribute the forces of your bite evenly across all of your teeth. This reduces the stress on your surrounding teeth. Using bridges to restore your smile helps prevent premature wear and tear.
Preserve Jaw Structure
Bridges help maintain the shape of your face by preventing the remaining teeth from shifting into the empty space. This can prevent issues like jaw misalignment and TMJ disorders.
Dental Bridge Treatment in Woodbridge, VA
A dental bridge is a viable treatment option for anyone with one or more missing teeth. They may be either fixed or removable, and our dentist can help you choose which type is right for you.
We follow a simple process for treatment with dental bridges. This process begins with a comprehensive evaluation to examine the health of the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and other support structures. You may have an existing dental bridge or teeth that need extraction. Regardless of your condition, the dentist will create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs, goals, and budget.
The dental bridge will be fabricated in a dental laboratory. You may have a temporary bridge to wear in the intermediate time period. In approximately 2 to 3 weeks from your initial visit, you will return so we can fit the final restoration.
How to Care for a Dental Bridge
Taking care of your dental bridge is important to keep it clean and to maintain your oral health. Here’s how to take care of your dental bridge properly:
Brush Your Teeth: Just like your natural teeth, you should brush your dental bridge at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and the bridge. Make sure to brush all surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush the surrounding teeth and gums as well.
Floss Daily: Flossing is just as important for your dental bridge as it is for your natural teeth. Your dentist will teach you a special technique for flossing under and around the artificial tooth or teeth in your bridge. This helps remove plaque and food particles that can get stuck in those areas. It’s essential to be gentle while flossing to avoid damaging the bridge or your gums.
Use an Interdental Brush or Floss Threaders: Sometimes, regular dental floss might be tricky to use around a bridge. In that case, consider using an interdental brush or floss threaders. These tools can help you clean hard-to-reach areas more easily.
Rinse with Mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your mouth clean and fresh. It can also help reduce plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy.
Regular Dental Visits: It’s crucial to visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine examinations and cleanings. Your dentist will check the condition of your dental bridge and surrounding teeth to ensure everything is healthy. They can also help clean areas that may be hard for you to reach.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Discover more about dental bridge treatment in our Woodbridge, VA dental office: