Is a Dental Bridge the Right Solution for Your Missing Teeth?

Are you self-conscious about gaps in your teeth or tired of struggling to chew your food? Dental bridges in Issaquah could be just what you need to restore the looks and function of your teeth. However, not everyone can jump into the world of bridges, as this treatment isn't a one-size-fits-all solution.  

Take a closer look at the key considerations for determining if a dental bridge is right for you to make a confident decision and rock your new smile.

Signs You Are Fit to Get Dental Bridges

Good Oral Health  

Good oral health is a determining factor for becoming a suitable candidate for dental bridges. Patients need to have healthy gums and teeth free of erosion, decay, and infection. If you have gum disease or cavities, your dentist has to address those issues before giving you a dental bridge. They may recommend treatments like scaling, root planing, or fillings to restore your teeth.  

Some tips for maintaining proper oral health at home include:  

• Brushing your teeth at least twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing daily to get rid of plaque and food particles between your teeth.
• Using mouthwash for fresher breath
• Following a diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support your oral health.
• Not eating sugary or acidic foods and drinks that can damage your teeth and gums.
• Seeing your dentist twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings.  

Sufficient Jawbone Density  

Dental bridges rely on the underlying jawbone for support, meaning you need to have enough jawbone density to consider this tooth replacement an option. If you've been missing teeth for a while, your jawbone may have started to deteriorate. As a result, securing a dental bridge in place can be more challenging.

Your dentist must assess your jawbone density to determine if you're a good candidate for a bridge. They may recommend bone grafting or other procedures to rebuild your jawbone before replacing your teeth.  

Healthy Adjacent Teeth  

Dental bridges consist of an artificial pontic tooth and two crowns that get fixed to teeth next to the gap. For this reason, these neighboring teeth must be healthy and strong. If you have decay or infection in adjacent teeth, you'll need to take care of those issues first.  

Many patients get fillings, deep cleanings, or other treatments to restore the health of their smiles before getting bridges. When your dentist can save the neighboring teeth and is forced to extract them, you may need to explore other options, such as dental implants or partial dentures.  

Willingness to Commit to Proper Maintenance  

Maintaining a dental bridge requires a commitment to proper at-home hygiene and regular dental checkups. You'll need to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy and remove plaque and bacteria buildup around your bridge.   

You'll also need to avoid harmful foods for your bridge, like hard candies or popcorn kernels. Neglecting your dental bridge can lead to complications like decay or infection, putting surrounding teeth and gums at risk.  

Looking for a Dentist Who Can Make Top-Quality Dental Bridges in Issaquah?  

Ready to restore your smile and improve your oral health? Contact APEX Dental Care today to explore dental bridges and other tooth replacement options. Book your appointment now!