Dental bridges are an effective way to restore your smile by replacing your missing teeth. They are a corrective solution that mitigates other oral problems apart from tooth loss. Affordable and effective, they are thus a viable option for many people. However, not everyone may be a candidate for dental bridges. Read on to find out if you are.

 

What Qualifies Someone for Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges aid your oral and overall health. However, the doctor may need to assess to confirm if you are a good candidate. To determine if you are, they will need to consider the following:

 

Missing Teeth

You need to have one or more permanent teeth missing. Otherwise, the replacement is not necessary. The missing teeth should be consecutive to fit the replacement teeth in a bridge. These fused teeth should be next to each other as they fill in the gap in your teeth.

 

Sometimes, the dentist may opt to extract some teeth to make space for the bridge. However, this is rare. It happens on occasions where the remaining teeth also have bad, irreversible damage.

 

Missing teeth are the foundational feature of a good candidate. However, they are not the only factor that dentists consider when assessing whether you are a good candidate.

 

Good Overall Health

Good overall health before fitting in dental bridges is essential. Otherwise, it could result in other complications. Dental bridges are not ideal for patients with gingivitis, periodontal disease, or other infections. They can cause bruising and damage to the gum as you take time to be comfortable using them.

 

Undergo treatment for other dental issues first. Afterward, you can consider getting dental bridges. It is also not advisable for patients with severe medical conditions to get dental bridges. They may also need to recover before getting a fitting.

 

Good Oral Health

Oral health is vital when fitting dental bridges. Your teeth, gum, and jaw need to be in good shape because they provide support for the dental bridge. Your jawbones need to be dense, and the supporting teeth must be strong. They should also be cavity-free.

Patients with deteriorated jawbones may need a bone grafting procedure before getting the bridges. They will also have to wait until the treatment area heals to avoid irritating the gum. It also allows the bone to set in and provide a good foundation.

Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is vital for anyone considering dental bridges. It will keep your gums healthy and your teeth strong. That way, they will give your bridge support, and you will be comfortable as you use them every day. It also ensures that your bridge has a long lifespan.

Good oral hygiene includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day. However, it does not stop there. You also need to go for regular dental checkups and watch your diet. Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard candy since these can damage your teeth and bridges. They can result in tooth decay and tooth loss. Instead, opt for natural foods that help keep your teeth healthy and strong.


 

For more information on dental bridges or to see if you qualify, contact Riverview Dental at our Corunna, Michigan office. Call (989) 743-4851 to schedule an appointment today.