If you lose a tooth, it can be easy to start panicking. You begin to worry about what people will think of your appearance. After all, it’s so important to have a good set of teeth to keep your smile looking great. Still, you shouldn’t worry too much. Losing a tooth is more common than you think. It can occur from something as trivial as a fall on a hard floor, or something a bit more serious, such as tooth decay. However, there is a way you can resolve the issue, so you no longer have a gap in your mouth. An efficient method is using a Porcelain fixed bridge.
What is a Fixed Bridge?
Many people may not have heard of a fixed bridge. It’s an ideal way to replace a missing tooth by filling the gap with an artificial tooth. These technically bridge the gap, hence the name fixed bridge! They are created to match the function of the rest of your teeth, so you will not notice the difference. They can last over ten years once they have been set, so it is an excellent long term solution for tooth loss.
Why Porcelain?
By having a porcelain fixed bridge, you will be able to choose a color which is the most similar to the rest of your teeth. In fact, the material can make your teeth look more attractive than before. Thus, it is often found that people choose it for cosmetic purposes. Also, porcelain is extremely durable. It’s made from shells of ceramic, which if correctly bonded, can last a very long time.
Is It Right for Me?
The dentist will speak to you about the best treatment options available when you lose a tooth. They will be able to advise if you are suitable for a fixed bridge, or if there is a different option which might be more suited for you. The dentist will want to check if the teeth next to the gap are adequate for the treatment. Your teeth should be in a good enough condition to support the artificial bridge because when creating a bridge, the dentist will reduce the enamel on the teeth next to the gap so that there is room to insert the bridge. However, once the procedure is completed, your teeth will have less enamel and will be more exposed to getting cavities.
What Can I Do After the Treatment?
After the dentist has created the bridge, they will test to make sure it fits properly. It may take a couple of appointments to get it right before it’s cemented in place. Once it’s set, make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day as you usually would. Try and incorporate flossing into your routine if you don’t already. Flossing can help get rid of any food which has been left behind after brushing so you can ensure you won’t get cavities. If you have any worries or experience any pain, contact your dentist to settle any of your queries. Pain may indicate that the bridge is too loose and needs tightening. You may also start grinding your teeth after having a bridge fitted and may need a mouth guard. Any pain that lasts more than a couple of days should be reported to your dentist, and they can adjust it if necessary.