Bridges
A bridge is one of the most popular dental treatments for replacing a missing tooth. As the name suggests, this treatment essentially revolves around creating a metallic bridge between two teeth where the missing tooth used to be and inserting a new false tooth in the place such that it gives the appearance of a complete dental structure.
When to get a Bridge
Bridges are generally opted for by those who have missing teeth, either because of an accident or due to old age. Some other dental problems for which bridges are recommended are:
- If there is a jaw joint problem or a bite problem, bridge can be used to shift the teeth and fill extra spaces.
- To fix the ‘sunken face’ look which is a result of missing teeth.
- Bridges ultimately result in positioning of false teeth which can be an alternative for dentures and can improve chewing ability, especially for the elderly.
How is a bridge inserted
Getting a bridge inserted in the mouth is a slightly complicated procedure. First, a metal plate like appliance is placed in the space left vacant by the tooth which has fallen out. The adjacent teeth are given crowns to provide them more strength. Subsequently, a false tooth is moulded out of gold or porcelain in a special lab and inserted in the bridge.
Advantages of a bridge
Needless to say, there are many advantages to getting a bridge, the biggest being that the jawline becomes proper, chewing ability is improved and the smile is once again attractive.
Other options
If you do not want to get a bridge, the best alternative would be to go for dental implants. Although dental implants have their own advantages, they are also quite expensive.