A missing tooth can make it challenging to communicate or eat effectively - making your daily life difficult. Depending on the location of the tooth, it can also affect your appearance. But it’s more common than you may think, according to the American Dental Association, the average adult has three or more missing or decayed teeth. 

At Dental Image Therapy Centres, our Winnipeg clinics offer different treatment plans to fix your missing teeth and get your confident smile back. One way to replace the missing teeth is dental bridges. Bridges are fixed prosthetic devices (a false tooth) cemented on existing teeth or implants surrounding the space. 

It’s important to get the area looked at. When you ignore missing teeth, the gaps cause the remaining teeth to shift into the empty spaces, creating a bad bite - which means you can get increased pain or have problems eating. The bridges will help restore your smile and maintain your face shape.

What Are Dental Bridges Made Out Of?

Your dentist will help you decide which materials to use for your bridge based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations and cost. 

The most common types of dental bridges are:

• Traditional bridge is the most popular type of bridge and is made from ceramics or porcelain fused to metal. They are used when your natural teeth surround a missing tooth or gap. A bridge is made for the teeth on either side of the missing tooth with a false tooth in between them.
• Cantilever bridge is used when the patient does not have two teeth on either side of the missing tooth. However, the Journal of American Science notes there’s a higher chance of complications like fractured teeth or loosened crowns since it’s only supported by one side of the tooth.
• Maryland bridge uses metal or porcelain wings to bind a false tooth to the backs of the natural teeth. This bridge is recommended for replacing teeth at the front of the mouth. 

Can A Dental Bridge Last A Lifetime?

Bridges can last many years. However, they do sometimes come loose or fall out. The most important step you can take to ensure the longevity of your bridge is to practice good oral hygiene. 

You should also know a bridge can lose its support if the teeth or bone holding it in place are damaged by oral disease. To prevent this, keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and flossing daily. Also, see your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings.

If you’re missing a tooth or several teeth and would like to learn more about different dental treatment options for replacement, schedule an appointment at one of the Dental Image Therapy Centres today. You can find us at either Garden City Shopping Centre or St. Vital Centre.