Our smiles are one of those things that many take for granted. Healthy teeth. Healthy gums. That’s what we all want, right? But what happens when your smile is lacking and you don’t feel like flashing those pearly whites? Unfortunately, this is more common than we care to admit. 

About 25% of people have received a negative comment about their teeth from a family member, friend, or colleague. And 61% of Americans wish they could change their smile. Does that sound like you? If so, a dental bridge might be the solution to restore your smile.

What are dental bridges?

Let’s discuss why people dislike their smiles. Common reasons include missing teeth, gaps, or chipped or stained teeth. These issues can make anyone feel self-conscious and less confident about their appearance. That’s where dental bridges come in.

A dental bridge is a custom-made replacement that fills the gap where one or more teeth are missing. The bridge is anchored to the surrounding teeth or implants, providing a natural-looking and stable solution.

There are different types of bridges:

• Traditional bridges use crowns on either side and a pontic to fill the gap.
• Cantilever bridges are used when there’s only one supporting tooth.
• Maryland bridges have a metal or porcelain framework that is carefully cemented to the back of the adjacent teeth.
• Implant-supported bridges are anchored directly into the jawbone.

Dental bridges improve your ability to chew and speak properly. If your smile is lacking, a dental bridge can restore your smile and improve the functions of chewing and speaking. That is what you need to regain your confidence. 

The multiple benefits of dental bridges. 

The procedure to get a dental bridge takes a few appointments. But, once your bridge is in, you can expect many great benefits.

• Fill in gaps caused by missing teeth, giving you a complete and natural-looking smile.
• Helps you chew food properly and speak clearly without difficulty.

• Keeps the remaining teeth in their proper position, preventing them from shifting into the gap.
• Supports the facial structure and prevents the sunken look that can occur with missing teeth.
• Dental bridges can last many years with proper care—anywhere from 5 to 15 years. This makes bridges a long-lasting solution to missing teeth, and that lacking smile.
• Improves overall appearance and self-esteem, making you more confident in social and professional settings. Though this study was conducted seven years ago, about 73% of Americans are more likely to trust someone with a nice smile—that’s pretty impressive!

Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?

All of the above probably seems too good to be true, but we promise it isn’t. And so this begs the question: Are you a good candidate for tooth restoration via a dental bridge? We hope so! We look for individuals with overall good oral health, including healthy gums and sufficient bone structure, to support the bridge. 

The surrounding teeth must be strong enough to act as anchors. However, the best way to determine if a dental bridge is right for you is through a consultation with a dental professional at Dental Care Associates of Buffalo. Your dental team in Buffalo, Minnesota, can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the best treatment plan to restore your smile.

How to maintain and care for your dental bridge.

Next up—how do you care for your dental bridge once you have it? The great news is that taking care of your dental bridge is pretty easy. Stick to your usual oral hygiene routine:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush 
• Floss at least once per day between each tooth, preferably before bedtime
• Rinse after brushing and flossing with a fluoridated mouthwash
• Stick to tooth-friendly foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, fiber, and vitamins A, C, D, and K, as much as possible
• Visit your dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning

That’s it—almost. We recommend you avoid some foods if you have a dental bridge. Sticky foods, like caramels and chewing gum, can dislodge or damage the bridge, while hard foods, like nuts and ice can cause cracks or chips. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks that can lead to decay around the bridge is also wise. Instead, focus on eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. By making smart food choices, you’ll help that bridge last closer to 15 years than only five. Remember, while you can remove a dental bridge, the goal is for it to last.

Do you need a dental bridge to restore your smile?

If you are one of the many Americans missing a tooth, it’s time to turn that smile around. A dental bridge is a common restorative dentistry solution designed to help you love your smile again. Contact us today to get started. We promise. After just a few appointments—you’ll wonder why you waited so long.