If you’re missing one or more teeth, then you’re probably worried about how you look without them. Although aesthetics are always an important consideration in these instances, missing teeth can also have a significant impact on the functionality of your bite and the structural integrity of your smile. The good news is that dental bridges offer a safe, simple and surprisingly affordable solution in the Little Rock area. Best of all, dental bridges are among the least invasive restorative dental treatments available.
What are Dental Bridges?
Consumers in Little Rock have several options to choose from when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Dental implants and dental bridges, however, are by far the most popular and most reliable of these choices. With implants, titanium posts are actually inserted and grafted into the jawbone. Once they’ve been successfully grafted in, these posts will support one or more artificial teeth. To qualify for an implant procedure, patients must have healthy gum tissues and sufficient density in their jawbones for supporting their implants.
Conversely, dental bridges do not affect the jawbone. These treatments involve the construction of a bridge between the two remaining teeth that about the missing tooth. This bridge will support an artificial tooth called a pontic. The only requirement for this procedure is that the patient have two healthy teeth that are capable of supporting the bridge within the affected area. Once installed, a dental bridge and pontic will serve as a stable and functional tooth that both completes the smile and enhances the individual’s talking and chewing abilities.
Why Choose Dental Bridges?
Depending upon their location, missing teeth can greatly affect a person’s ability to enunciate. Moreover, as soon as even a single tooth goes missing, all of the remaining teeth in the mouth are going to have to work harder to bite off and chew food. This will subject these structures to accelerated wear, while greatly increasing the likelihood of stress fractures. More importantly, stress fracture sets the stage for continued tooth decay and ultimately, additional tooth loss. By having a dental bridge installed to complete your smile, you can regain your confidence and effectively balance out your bite forces.
Talk to Our Cosmetic Dentist
Make an appointment with Dr. Samuel F. Jirik in Cabot to learn more about dental bridges. Contact our office today to set up your consultation!
