Do you have a gap in your smile due to one or more missing teeth? In addition to causing embarrassment, tooth loss can also have major negative impacts on your oral health. In order to address tooth loss, we may place a prosthetic, such as a lifelike dental bridge.
The Dangers of Missing Teeth
When you lose one or more teeth, then the gaps in your smile can lead to misalignment as teeth drift form position. An uneven smile not only impacts your appearance, but makes the onset of tooth decay and gum disease more likely. You also endure pressure on your jaw joints, which in turn leads to TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). Finally, missing teeth can impact your ability to eat, speak, and other factors important to your overall quality of life.
Creating and Placing a Dental Bridge
We can use a dental bridge to replace between one and three missing teeth in a row. The prosthetic consists of the new teeth, known as pontics, with crowns attached to each end. We prepare the teeth on either side of the gap, making room for the crowns. Once placed, they anchor the new teeth firmly in place. The prosthetic will be custom-made to ensure a comfortable fit and lifelike tooth replacement.
Preventing Further Tooth Loss
You can also take steps to protect your smile from further tooth loss. Make time to see the dentist every six months. The dentist can monitor your smile and watch for signs of developing problems, especially problems that can lead to tooth loss. You should also brush your teeth twice a day and floss every night before bed. If you have any questions about avoiding tooth loss, or about dental bridges, then contact our team today.
Talk To Woodland Hills Dental Arts About Dental Bridges
We can help fill the gaps in your smile with a lifelike prosthetic. Schedule a consultation by calling Woodland Hills Dental Arts in Woodland Hills, CA, today at (818) 347-5124. We also proudly work with patients from Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Encino, Sherman Oaks, and all other surrounding areas.