Bridging The Gaps In Your Smile
If you are missing a tooth, you might not be aware of all the ways that a gap can impact you. Both your appearance and the all-around health of your mouth can be at risk when a tooth is not replaced by something. The gap can be filled using a variety of dental solutions and your choice might be based on your budget, time, and the way you want your smile to look. One very affordable and simple way to fill an empty space is using dental bridges. To find out if this is the right solution for you, read on and learn more.
Why Are Spaces So Damaging?
Even if your missing tooth is not visible for all the world to see, damage is being done every moment that gap exists. Your jawbone plays a big role in the appearance of the lower part of your face. A sagging jawline can make you appear much older and tired-looking. There is a connection between the bones in your jaw and missing teeth that many don't realize, however. When the bones in your jaw sense that a tooth no longer needs support, the bones can begin to deteriorate. That bone loss is permanent and the only way to remedy it is with a bone graft. Secondly, every tooth in your mouth depends on the teeth above, below, and beside them to stay in place. Loose teeth can create avenues for bacteria to move into your gums and the result can be gum disease and cavities.
Dental Bridges to the Rescue
Fortunately, your other teeth and your jawbone cannot distinguish between a natural tooth and a substitute. That means solutions like dentures, partials, implants, and bridges can put a stop to the degenerative effects of a lost tooth. Bridge refers to the way a new false tooth is anchored to the two healthy teeth on either side of the gap. The metal workings are hidden behind your teeth and the new tooth blends naturally into your smile. The missing gap is filled with a false tooth that perfectly mimics your natural tooth in shape and color. False teeth can be created out of ceramics and metals. You can expect to visit the dentist at least twice so that an impression for the false tooth can be made and then for the bridge to be applied.
Don't just resign yourself to a gap in your smile because you cannot afford implants. Bridges are a cost-effective and healthy way to keep things both attractive and safe. Talk to a local family dentist to learn more.
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