The Role of Dental Bridges in Preventing Tooth Loss Complications

The Role of Dental Bridges in Preventing Tooth Loss Complications from Kaitilin K. Riley DDS in Paso Robles, CAConsidering a dental bridge to replace missing teeth? Read on to learn more about this restoration option. This tooth replacement option is one that produces a natural-looking smile while also restoring the necessary functions to perform daily life activities. Separately, dental bridges eliminate a lot of the complication risks that are associated with tooth loss.

How a dental bridge can help prevent complications from tooth loss

Below is a rundown of how dental bridges can prevent complications that might arise from tooth loss. This information can be helpful to review, especially for those who are preparing to replace missing teeth.

What are the potential complications of tooth loss?

After teeth are extracted or otherwise lost, the mouth is prone to a lot of risks, including gum irritation and infection, as well as, bone complications that occur beneath the gums. The bone beneath and the actual jaw can alter once teeth are no longer present in the mouth. When a natural tooth is in place, it stimulates the bone underneath it, so losing the tooth also prevents the stimulation of the jawbone. These alterations can actually cause serious problems, such as the shift of other remaining teeth, and facial structural changes, which can affect symmetry and even sight.

How can a dental bridge prevent these complications?

There have been many advancements within dentistry that allow for the aforementioned complications to be avoided or at least deterred for quite some time. Dental bridges, in particular, are one of the procedures that can be performed to help keep these complications at bay.

Dental bridges work by filling the gap that is left when missing teeth are decayed or extracted. This empty space is prone to infection and irritation, which is why it is highly recommended to fill it with a prosthetic, such as a dental bridge. With this option, the remaining natural teeth are used to anchor in an abutment piece, which holds dental crowns that act as the prosthetic teeth. The abutments act as the anchors while the crowns act as the actual replacement teeth. This combination creates a bridge, thus bridging the gap left behind.

Because the empty space is then filled with the prosthetic, there is no risk of crowding or a shift in the other remaining teeth because the empty space is filled. Another risk that is no longer present is the difficulty that comes with eating. When there are missing teeth, the gaps make it hard to properly chew and process food. However, after a dental bridge is placed, this is no longer a concern.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridge in Paso Robles, CA

The bottom line

Those who want to opt for a dental bridge to replace missing teeth should consult directly with a dentist to start the process. The consultation allows patients to ask questions and go over any concerns they might have. Additionally, the dentist can evaluate the mouth to determine if a dental bridge is a suitable option. In the event that bridges are not a good option, the dentist can provide suitable alternatives.

Request an appointment or call Kaitilin K. Riley DDS at 805-257-2583 for an appointment in our Paso Robles office.

Related Posts

What To Expect Before, During, And After Dental Bridge Placement

Losing a tooth can make daily activities like chewing feel difficult, but a dental bridge offers a predictable way to restore smile function and appearance. Still, it is normal to be initially unsure if they are the right tooth replacement for you. Although they may take a few appointments, bridges work well for many patients.…

The Smile Makeover Explained

Those looking to revamp their smiles have probably encountered the term smile makeover and wondered what it is. The term does not refer to just one procedure but a plan to "makeover" the smile by improving the aesthetic appearance of teeth. A smile makeover can radically differ from patient to patient because each plan is…

How Proper Aftercare Reduces Risks After Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a procedure that requires a short period of healing. When a tooth is removed from its socket, there is an empty space left behind, which can be a site for infection growth if the proper steps are not taken. Thankfully, dentistry has come quite a long way when it comes to providing…