Tooth loss is common for people of all ages with a chronic disease and even more common for those over 65, according to the CDC. Car accidents, sports injuries, clumsiness, poor oral health, and chewing on hard foods can also be the reason for tooth loss.
Thankfully, modern dentistry offers several solutions for patients who have lost one, several, or all of their teeth. One of the most popular restorative dentistry options is a dental bridge.
A dental bridge bridges the gap between two teeth where one, two, or three teeth have fallen out. The bridge is made up of two crowns on both sides of one, two, or three pontics (or false teeth).
Dr. Julie Glud, dentist in Lombard, IL, placed dental bridges for those who are suitable candidates for this reliable tooth replacement option. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation.
Suitable candidates for dental bridges have these four qualities:
1. Good Oral Health
To qualify for a dental bridge, the patient must have good oral health, meaning they are free of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. In most cases, these issues can be resolved before placing the bridge.
Good oral health and good overall health are necessary for almost any dental procedure because we want to reduce the risk of failure or complications.
2. Healthy and Strong Neighboring Teeth
Dental bridges are attached to teeth on both sides of the missing teeth with dental crowns. This means that the neighboring teeth must be strong and healthy. Additionally, the bone beneath the neighboring teeth must be strong and healthy as well. If this is not the case for you, Dr. Glud will discuss other tooth replacement options, like a denture or dental bridge.
3. One to Three Consecutive Missing Teeth
Dental bridges are only suitable for patients with one, two, or three consecutive missing teeth. Sometimes, people with three missing teeth in a row won’t qualify for a dental bridge either. This will be determined by our Lombard, IL, dentist during your initial consultation.
If you have missing teeth scattered throughout your smile or more than three missing teeth in a row, you should ask about other restorative dentistry options.
4. Committed to Good Oral Hygiene
Simply stated: no restorative dentistry treatment is worth it if you aren’t planning on taking care of your restoration and natural teeth. Patients who receive dental bridges should commit to brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist at least every six months. Without proper care, the patients will likely develop cavities, gum disease, or both, which may result in further tooth loss.
Dental Bridge Placement in Lombard, IL
If you need to replace missing teeth, choose a trusted and established dentist like Dr. Julie Glud. With nearly 200 5-star Google reviews, Dr. Glud is someone you can rely on to provide honest recommendations, excellent care, and stunning results.
Dr. Glud offers traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges to those who qualify. Call our office today at (630) 629-5700 or request an appointment online to schedule your initial consultation.
