It's no secret that having a bright and healthy smile is essential. Besides boosting our self-confidence, it helps us feel confident in social and professional settings.
Dental bridges are one of the most popular tooth restoration options available for those with missing teeth. But like other procedures, they also have their pros and cons.
Let’s talk about their benefits and risks, and some good-to-know points before deciding to receive them.
Pros of dental bridges
- Better appearance. One of the most significant advantages of dental bridges is that they fill the gaps between teeth beautifully. Bridges are created to match the natural color and shape of your teeth, making them virtually undetectable. This benefit is ideal for people who feel self-conscious about their smiles due to tooth loss.
- Improved speech and eating ability. Tooth loss can lead to difficulty speaking and eating, making simple activities such as chewing, speaking, and pronouncing words challenging. Dental bridges restore these abilities, enhancing your quality of life.
- Prevents teeth shifting. Losing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift positions in your mouth, affecting your bite alignment, jaw functionality, and overall oral health. Dental bridges are a great option as they prevent teeth from shifting, preserving your bite function and facial structure.
Cons of dental bridges
- Damage to healthy teeth. Dental bridges must be anchored onto the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, and this requires grinding down a portion of the healthy teeth. This process can weaken the structure of the teeth and leave them vulnerable to decay, damage, and even tooth loss in some cases.
- Shorter lifespan. Although dental bridges can generally last for several years, they’re not permanent. Over time, your bridge may loosen, break, or even fall out altogether, requiring you to undergo additional procedures.
- Oral hygiene challenges. Bridges require care and maintenance. Food particles, bacteria, and other debris can accumulate underneath your bridge, which can result in to gum disease, decay, and other dental health problems.
When should you consider getting dental bridges?
Here are some situations when getting dental bridges can be helpful.
- Missing teeth. The most common reason to choose dental bridges is to replace one or more missing teeth. Gaps between teeth due to missing teeth can lead to dental problems like gum diseases and tooth decay.
- Weak teeth. If you have weak teeth due to root canal treatment, damage, or decay, the surrounding teeth may also be vulnerable. When the strength and stability of your teeth are compromised, dental bridges can help stabilize them by attaching to the healthy teeth on each side of the problematic tooth. The bridge will help spread the pressure of chewing and biting evenly.
- Cosmetic concerns. Not all patients who consider dental bridges need it for medical reasons. Sometimes, people opt for bridges to improve cosmetic appearance only. A bridge can help improve the appearance of your teeth by fixing issues such as crooked teeth or large gaps between teeth.
- Chewing difficulties. Missing teeth can change how your bite feels, causing pain and difficulty when chewing your food. Bridges will restore the natural biting surface of your teeth, making it easier to chew and enjoy the food you love.
- Dental health concerns. Without a bridge, your teeth may shift due to the space created by the missing tooth. This shifting can lead to a chain reaction of dental problems that can harm your dental health. Dental bridges prevent these issues by filling the gaps and providing support.
The decision to opt for dental bridges is a personal one. Nonetheless, understanding both the advantages and disadvantages is crucial when it comes to making an informed decision.
Weigh the benefits and risks and consult a dental professional as to whether dental bridges would be the ideal option for your situation.
To set up an appointment with a dentist in Chilliwack, BC, contact us at Vita Dental Wellness. Let’s discuss the options available to restore your smile and find out which one is the most appropriate for you.