Are You a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?

Getting a dental bridge is easy and economical. But there are factors to consider before you have these dental restorations. A full oral exam will determine if you can get a bridge. Here are the details to consider if you are a good dental bridge candidate.

Location of the missing tooth

This is a vital consideration in one’s candidacy for a dental bridge. A restoration like this can replace one to two missing teeth next to each other. Many missing teeth in different areas of the mouth will need options like dental implants or partial dentures. The dentist can help determine the right dental replacement for the patient’s case.

Oral health

A patient’s general well-being is a top consideration for one’s dental bridge candidacy. The remaining teeth and gums should be in a very good state of health. Issues like tooth decay or gum disease must get treatment first. Addressing these problems is ideal before installing a dental bridge.

Bone density

Research shows that some patients do not have healthy abutment teeth to support a dental bridge. The dentist will then suggest using dental implants to keep the bridge in place. That is why the jawbone density is important. Insufficient bone density will need bone grafting before the implant and bridge placement.

Dental strength

The natural teeth on either side of the dental gap must be healthy and strong. These teeth will be the abutment teeth. They should anchor the dental bridge well. Weak abutment teeth will not be able to do the job. The dentist might suggest dental implants as anchors instead.

General health

The dentist will consider one’s general health for the dental bridge procedure. Specific medications and conditions could affect one’s candidacy for this restoration. A complete assessment will help determine if the patient is a good candidate. Diagnostic exams and reviewing the patient’s medical history are critical in determining if a bridge is appropriate.

Good oral hygiene

Once a person gets a dental bridge, oral hygiene must improve more. Good oral care can prevent this restoration from failing. Proper oral hygiene can protect the abutment teeth from dental decay. Daily flossing and brushing are crucial for the abutment teeth’s health. Cleaning underneath the dental bridge is important to clean the area between the gum and pontic. The dentist can provide cleaning tools for this task.

Benefits of choosing the right dentist for a dental bridge

Getting the right dentist for this restoration can ensure proper installation. The experience and skills in dental bridge procedures can result in long-term dental support. State-of-the-art technology allows exact bridge fabrication, precise diagnostics, and treatment planning. The right dentist can provide custom-fit solutions to help achieve the patient’s smile goals.