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Facts to Consider When Choosing a Dental Bridge in Phoenix
May 20, 2023
Gaps caused by missing teeth can wreak havoc on your smile and your oral health. That gap can ruin an otherwise beautiful smile, but worse yet it can cause the remaining teeth to lean into the empty space, causing misalignment. As the teeth shift, it affects how they fit together and they loosen from the gum tissue, creating areas where harmful bacteria can accumulate, encouraging the development of periodontal disease. Additionally, the pressure of chewing is no longer distributed evenly, which can result in excessive wear on the remaining teeth and even cause pain in the jaws.
Fortunately, there are several options available to replace missing teeth, partial dentures, implants, and dental bridges are all effective tooth replacements. Partial dentures can be a fast and economical solution, but some patients are dissatisfied with the lack of stability of a removable restoration. Dental implants are considered the prime choice for tooth replacement, but some patients have insufficient bone for implant placement, and others simply do not want a surgical solution. Dental bridges are not removable, so they are very stable, they don’t rely on the jawbone for support, and they do not involve surgery, making them an ideal choice for some patients. There are a number of advantages to dental bridges:
- The beauty of your smile is restored
- Your facial shape and tone are maintained
- Bite pressure is distributed evenly, preventing jaw pain
- You are able to speak clearly
- The alignment of your teeth is maintained
There are a few disadvantages to dental bridges:
- The bridge must be cleaned under, usually with a floss threader
- Impeccable oral hygiene is necessary to ensure the longevity of the bridge
- The teeth adjacent to the gap must be shaped to support the bridge
We value the trust our patients place in us, and explain all options available to treat any dental concern. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment so that our patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and be delighted with the results.
Dr. Koppikar and the highly skilled team at Biltmore Dental Center offer a variety of options to make smiles in Phoenix bright, beautiful, happy, and healthy. Call (602) 704-0659 and schedule an appointment today, if you are a new patient, ask about our complimentary consultation and exam!