Benefits and Risks of Dental Bridges
Tooth loss impairs oral functions, weakens the bite, and compromises the smile’s appearance. Individuals who have lost one to three teeth from the same area of the mouth are likely ideal candidates for dental bridges. Dental bridges fill gaps left by tooth loss to rebuild the smile.
Dr. David J. Tasch and Dr. Mike Meek of 38th Street Dental in Austin, TX, offer dental bridge treatment for missing teeth. Here we discuss the benefits and risks of dental bridges that should be considered before patients determine if these dental restorations are the most appropriate solution for their unique dental needs.
Dental Bridge Benefits
Dental bridges replace missing teeth to restore the smile to its natural state. These restorations offer several benefits for the smile's health, function, and appearance.
Improved Oral Functions
Tooth loss can compromise a wide range of oral functions, including eating and speaking. Dental bridges are strong restorations built to withstand biting and chewing. Dental bridges allow our Austin patients to bite, chew, and enjoy their favorite foods. Dental bridges also fill in gaps that can interfere with speech, so patients do not have to worry about a lisp or other speech problems related to tooth loss.
Stronger, More Balanced Bite
The loss of even a single tooth throws off the balance of the bite and compromises its strength. When the pressure of the bite is uneven, some teeth receive excessive force, which can result in dental damage. The jaw may also develop disorders when the bite’s balance is off. Dental bridges restore a full set of teeth to allow for a strong and even bite.
Enhanced Aesthetics
Many people avoid smiling, laughing, or talking in front of others after tooth loss because they are embarrassed by the state of their smile. Dental bridges are attractive restorations that blend in with natural teeth to restore a healthy, beautiful-looking smile.
Prevention of Further Dental Complications
The smile is like a puzzle and each piece is necessary to create a full picture. When teeth are lost, adjacent teeth lack support and are likely to shift, collapse, or develop other dental complications. Dental bridges help our Austin patients maintain a straight and healthy smile.
Dental Bridge Risks
Dental bridges are reliable restorations that offer many benefits. Dental bridge treatment is unlikely to cause problems, but patients should consider the potential risks of treatment.
In rare cases, dental bridge patients may develop an infection or gum disease because they fail to brush and floss properly around the restoration. This risk can be avoided with good oral hygiene practices and routine dental exams and cleanings.
The greatest risk of traditional dental bridges is jaw bone recession. Dental bridges replace only the crowns of missing teeth. Without tooth roots to stimulate bone tissues, the jaw will atrophy and shrink over time. Patients can avoid this complication by opting for implant-supported bridges, which replace the crown and roots of a tooth.
Get in Touch
If you have lost one to three consecutive teeth, a dental bridge may be the best way to rebuild your smile. To learn more about dental bridge treatment and the benefits and risks of this procedure, schedule an appointment at 38th Street Dentalat your earliest convenience.
