Sometimes, a dental bridge can replace up to four missing teeth in succession. However, it is more common (and often more beneficial) to limit your bridge teeth to one or two.
Of course, your Phoenix dentist will evaluate your case to be sure.
How Does a Dental Bridge Work?
A dental bridge is a replacement tooth or teeth situated between dental crowns. This is a single prosthetic (crowns and custom replacement teeth) with crowns covering neighboring teeth, allowing the bridge to close your smile gap.
If neighboring teeth cannot support the dental bridge, your dentist might consider an implant-supported bridge. Typically, it takes only one dental implant to secure a small bridge.
Dental Bridge Care and Upkeep
The dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that can only be removed by your Phoenix dentist. However, keeping it clean, especially at the gumline, is crucial. Failure to care for your bridge can result in prosthetic failure and additional oral health complications.
We recommend a special cleaning brush to keep the bridge beautiful and stain-free. You should also use a floss threader or water floss at the gumline to prevent irritation and gingivitis—both can cause bridge failure.
Of course, it’s vital to brush and floss your teeth as usual and continue seeing the dentist every six months for comprehensive dental checkups, bridge monitoring, and professional teeth cleanings. You want to ensure there is no additional tooth loss due to decay. Consider that your bridge is anchored to teeth that must remain healthy!
If your bridge or crown loosens or you notice irritation at the site of your prosthetic, it’s crucial to contact our dental office for guidance.
Quality Crowns and Bridges in Phoenix, AZ
We offer a variety of tooth replacement options to meet your needs. Call us today at (602) 957-2170 to learn more or to schedule a consultation with the dentist.