The skills possessed by dentists and the rapid advancement of dental technology have led to an incredibly wide range of treatment options. This is great news for dental patients! Never before have there been more choices in how to improve their smiles with cosmetic changes or restorative dentistry. They can now receive more specific treatment for any number of oral-health-related issues that may arise in their lives. However, the grand scope of available options can lead to confusion or uncertainty on the parts of some patients. While they should always seek a dentist with a large selection of treatment offerings, they may be unfamiliar with many of the choices available. This means they might overlook a potential new dentist that offered the perfect service for their situation.
One particular service with which patients may not be familiar is the dental bridge. Dental bridges are an incredible feat of dentistry that can help a patient replace a lost or extracted permanent tooth. Unfortunately, many patients are not exactly sure what dental bridges are or how they work, leading them to miss out on an ideal procedure.
So, what exactly are dental bridges and how do they work?
What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge is a replacement option for a permanent tooth or multiple teeth that may have been extracted or lost due to decay or injury. They are a great option for a patient looking for something more permanent and convenient than partial dentures, which can slip around and affect eating and speech. They are also a common choice for people who may not prefer a more involved and extensive procedure like a dental implant (although implants are becoming one of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth).
What do dental bridges do?
Dental bridges are very appropriately named as they form a bridge over the space where a missing tooth used to be by connecting both neighboring teeth. This bridge creates a home for a full dental crown (replacement tooth). Replacement crowns are created in a lab and can be designed to mimic the shape and coloration of your existing natural teeth. This means that they will help your smile regain the appearance it had before the tooth went missing.
These natural-looking crowns are usually made of metal, ceramic or a combination of the two. Ask your dentist to review the different materials their office offers so you can learn more about the benefits of each and how they may be better or worse for your situation.
Have you lost a tooth due to extraction or injury and wish to have a complete smile once again? Dental bridges might be the perfect option for you! If you have more questions about dental bridges in Broomfield, CO, call Petersen Family Dentistry today at (720) 308–9798 or contact us online.
