The Facts About Dental Bridges

Author: Dr. Rima Solanki, DMD

What are Dental Bridges and How Do They Work?

If you have recently lost your tooth due to an injury, decay, or natural cause, you may be wondering what your options are in order to restore your smile. A missing tooth can create an unsightly gap, but it can also cause teeth to shift. You could also experience pain when chewing, discomfort in your jaw, or other problems that are caused by a change to your bite. One of the most common solutions to this problem is having a dental bridge placed in your mouth. So what exactly does the process entail and how does a dental bridge work?

Dental Bridge Placement

Your dentist will numb the area of your mouth with local anesthetic by injecting medication directly into your gums. This is usually prefaced by the use of topical numbing jelly, placed on your gums to minimize the discomfort of the shot.

The first step in fabricating a dental bridge is taking imprints and measurements of your mouth. This ensures that your custom-made bridge will fit properly and feel comfortable. If needed, your dentist may place temporary crowns if your teeth are compromised, offering protection as you wait for the bridge to be created. During your procedure, any temporary crowns will be removed and the dentist will apply the cement that holds the bridge in place.

What Should You Expect After the Procedure?

During the procedure, you shouldn’t feel sharp pains because of the use of local anesthetic. However, you will have to keep your mouth open for up to several hours, so you may feel some discomfort or soreness in your jaw. Over-the-counter pain relievers will typically resolve the issue. You can also place an ice pack on the outside of your jaw.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Dental bridges offer a number of benefits. This simple procedure provides an appealing cosmetic result that eliminates the space and creates a uniform, beautiful smile. When you have one or more missing teeth, you can also suffer from problems with biting and chewing. Replacing the teeth with bridges will eliminate any problems you might experience when you’re eating. Your speech can also be impacted by a missing tooth, so filling it in with a fake tooth will allow you to speak normally.

With the right treatment, a missing or damaged tooth doesn’t have to impact the look of your smile or the overall condition of your mouth. Dental bridges offer a number of advantages, so if your dentist recommends this treatment for your condition, it’s an excellent option.