Dental bridges and dental implants are both used in dental work to restore the appearance and functionality of the teeth. However, there are key differences in the two corrective options. A professional Shelton dentist will be able to explain which dental procedure is best for your needs, but knowing what to expect from either procedure and understanding the aftercare is crucial to the upkeep of the changes.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a restorative technique used by dentists to fill the gap left by a missing tooth. This dental repair uses your existing teeth as anchors to hold a prosthetic tooth in place and is ideal for patients who are missing one to three consecutive teeth. The process can restructure your smile to its natural appearance without the need for oral surgery.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are another way to fill the area of a missing tooth. The process requires replacing a tooth’s root with a metal post and attaching an artificial tooth to that framework to replace damaged or missing teeth. While dental implants most closely replicate your natural teeth, not everyone’s health allows for them to have the oral surgery performed.
Is Dental Bridge or Dental Implant Better?
Consult with your Bridgeport dentist regarding which tooth replacement treatment is best for your situation. A dental bridge is recommended for those whose bone and gum health is not strong enough to support metal posts being implanted into the jaw bone, as is performed with dental implants. If, however, your oral health supports the surgery, dental implants are a more natural feeling, permanent solution.
If you add your Shelton dentistry team opt for a dental bridge, you’ll need to prepare for dental care changes after the procedure. A dental bridge can last 10 years or longer when cared for properly.
Care Steps For Dental Bridge
To keep your dental bridge and the teeth around it clean, follow these care tips:
- Brush twice daily: Just as with your natural teeth, the dental bridge needs to be cleaned of food particles and germs.
- Use super floss: One of the biggest concerns with a dental bridge is food particles becoming lodged between your natural tooth and the replacement tooth. Use super floss to keep your dental bridge in good shape. Super floss is designed for cleaning braces, bridges and wide gaps between teeth. The stiffened end of the floss is ideal for cleaning under dental appliances.
- Routine dental visits: Visit your dentist or dental hygienist regularly for a professional cleaning.
With a dental bridge, you can prevent problems with chewing and talking that arise with a missing tooth. For questions on whether a dental bridge is right for you or aftercare steps to keep your teeth healthy, follow up with your dentist in Shelton and use these dental bridge care tips.