What is a dental bridge? How is it different from dentures?
A dental bridge is an intervention that can return the full appearance and function of your teeth before full dentures are necessary. Dentures are designed to cover large areas of the teeth, whereas bridges are most effective when they’re only compensating for a single missing tooth.
Unlike dentures, bridges are not designed to be removed from the mouth. They remain fixed in the mouth permanently and are treated like another tooth. The fit is designed to be very close so that food and other matter don’t get trapped under the tooth.
How long will a proper dental bridge last?
The bridges we place are very long-lived, and can often give you 10-15 years of functional use. To ensure that it lasts as long as possible, make sure that you follow the care instructions that you receive closely.
How do I properly care for my dental bridge?
A bridge requires the same care regimen as your other teeth. You should be brushing and flossing around it as normal. It won’t itself be susceptible to bacteria like real teeth, but if any pits develop over time, it can be a place where bacteria can gather, so it’s important to be vigilant.
Make sure that you’re scheduling regular dental cleanings, even if you’ve never made a habit of that before. The health of the teeth that hold the bridge together is very important, so make sure you clean them often.
What might make me a bad candidate for dental bridges?
Not everyone is a great candidate for this treatment. If you have more than one missing tooth, you may not be able to get a bridge. Also, if the teeth on either side of the planned bridge are too deteriorated for a good base, it’s likely that you’ll need to look for a different solution.
What are the other options if I can’t get dental bridges?
If you aren’t a good candidate, it’s likely that we can still help you bring back your smile. If a tooth isn’t significantly damaged, a crown may be a better option than removing it for a bridge. If there’s too much damage to too many teeth, dentures are a better alternative. If the concern is your budget, we may have good news for you about the costs of dental bridges in Tijuana. Call to find out how much you can save over US dentists.