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Bridging the Gap - A bridge is a way to replace
one or more missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth makes it easier
to chew. It can improve our appearance. It also helps keep your
teeth, gums and jaws healthy.
What Happens After Tooth
Loss? - Spaces left by missing teeth affects the
rest of your teeth. These gaps can cause chewing problems.
If even one tooth is missing, other teeth may slowly shift
out of place. This changes the way your teeth fit together
(your bite). A poor bite may make your jaw sore. Your teeth
may become harder to clean leading to tooth decay and gum
disease. And the shifting of teeth following tooth loss may
change your smile.
What is a Fixed Bridge? - A fixed bridge
is one or more replacement teeth attached to the natural teeth
next to them. Once it's in place, the bridge is not meant
to be removed. A bridge can be made of metal, tooth-colored
porcelain or a combination of the two. Your dentist will suggest
the best material for your mouth. There are two main types
of bridges: conventional and resin-bonded.
The Procedure - It will take two or more
dental visits to prepare and fit your bridge
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Preparing Your Teeth - For a conventional bridge,
the teeth on either side of the space to filled must be reshaped.
These reshaped teeth hold crowns that support the bridge. Limited
reshaping is also necessary with the resin-bonded bridge. For either
bridge, impressions of your teeth are taken. These impressions are
used to make your bridge. This process takes several weeks. During
this time, you may have a temporary bridge to protect your reshaped
teeth.
Fitting Your Bridge - When your new bridge is
ready, your dentist places it on your teeth and adjusts it until
it fits and feels right. The bridge is then cemented or bonded into
place. If you have any problems over the next few days, call your
dentist. He or she can advise you what to do or make any other adjustments
that may be needed.
Caring for Your Bridge - Your bridge depends on
the health of supporting teeth and gums. Always clean your bridge
and the rest of your mouth carefully. Ask your dentist whether special
cleaning aids for bridges would help you.
Brushing - Brush after each meal. Brush the surfaces
and sides of your bridge like you do your natural teeth. Use an
inter-dental brush to clean between large spaces.
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Flossing - Floss at least once a day to
clean food and bacteria from between teeth and at the gum
line. Special thick floss can help keep your bridge clean.
Floss threaders help you thread floss under a fixed bridge.
Dental Visits - See your dentist at least
twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. These dental visits
help keep your teeth and gums in good condition. Your dentist
can also check to be sure there are no problems with your
bridge. If you do notice a problem, especially if you bridge
is loose, call your dentist right away. Never
try to fix your bridge yourself.
Living with Your Bridge - Your new bridge
can help make chewing comfortable again. It can also let you
feel confident about your smile. Take the time to care for
your teeth. Keep your mouth healthy and your teeth will stay
looking and feeling good. |
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