If you have missing teeth, you may be at risk of further dental complications, so you should ask your dental professional about tooth replacement solutions. Patients with three or more missing teeth in a row may find effective restorative treatment with a dental bridge.
Depending on your preferences and dental needs, you may receive a fixture that you can take out of your mouth or one that will remain firmly in place. Dr. Joseph Thompson, a dentist serving patients in Greeley, CO, illustrates the differences between a fixed and a removable dental bridge.
Which Dental Bridge Will Restore My Smile?
Removable Dental Bridges
If you are looking for an affordable yet effective way to replace several missing teeth, your dentist may recommend a removable dental bridge. This fixture features prosthetic teeth that have dental crowns on each end.
You place the crowns over your remaining teeth when you want to wear your bridge, and the appliance will clasp firmly into its position. A dentist will need to prepare these adjacent teeth by shaving down the enamel to make room for the crowns to fit. After this procedure, you will be able to eat your favorite foods with confidence and feel happy about the way that your smile looks with your dental bridge.
Many patients appreciate that they can take the device out of their mouths when they do not need it. This allows for easy cleaning of your bridge and maximum comfort for the individual. With proper care and maintenance, this type of dental bridge can last for five to ten years.
Fixed Dental Bridges
Many dental professionals recommend fixed dental bridges for maximum restorative benefits for patients after tooth loss. This type of bridge utilizes dental implants to secure the device into a patient’s mouth where it will not be able to be removed.
Patients will not have to worry about replacing a fixed dental bridge because it will remain in place permanently, providing a lifetime of advantages. This option is more expensive than a removable bridge, but this treatment requires less maintenance and hassle for patients.
Furthermore, the implants of this bridge can improve the health of the jawbone following tooth loss. The anchors in the jaw keep the bone there healthy, stopping its deterioration and encouraging bone that may have already been lost to regrow. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine which type of dental bridge best suits your unique dental scenario.
Find Optimal Tooth Replacement in Greeley, CO
Thompson Advanced Dentistry offers both fixed and removable dental bridges and other tooth replacement solutions to patients in Greeley, CO. Dr. Thompson also specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry, including laser dental treatments, for patients of all ages. If you feel nervous about upcoming dental work, ask your dental professional about sedation dentistry options. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our office by phone at 970.205.9614 or reach a member of our staff online.