The oral health benefits of dental bridges in Los Angeles are amazing

While we all know that gaps in a smile can be unsightly, many people are surprised at the amazing health benefits of replacing missing teeth. Dental bridges, available from Downtown Dental in Los Angeles offer a fast and economical solution.

What happens when you lose a tooth

Ideally a healthy adult should be able to keep his or her natural teeth for life. however, systemic conditions or oral injury can cause tooth loss. Additionally, some people don’t understand the importance of brushing, flossing, and dental care until it is too late. For these and other reasons, about a quarter of all adults have lost at least one tooth.

The immediate effects of tooth loss include difficulty speaking clearly and chewing, as well as cosmetic effects if it is a front tooth. Without treatment, the problems will compound. Gradually, other teeth will shift, leaning towards the empty space. Misalignment of other teeth coupled with a gap makes brushing and flossing more difficult, creating hard to reach areas. As you probably know, accumulated plaque and tartar lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Benefits of tooth replacement

A dental bridge or other tooth replacement solution can benefit your health and quality of life in many ways, including:

• Improve chewing efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods again
• Properly distribute biting force, preventing shifting of teeth, excess wear and tear, and other problems
• Maintain oral structure, which preserves the shape of your face
• Restore your ability to speak clearly and smile with confidence
• Preserve bone health and strength (if the restoration is supported by dental implants)

Treatment options for replacing missing teeth

Depending on the number and location of missing teeth, as well as your personal preferences, there are several treatment options. When you visit Downtown Dental for a consultation, we will discuss all the viable options for your situation, explaining the pros and cons of each.

• Dentures – A full plate can replace all the teeth in an arch, or a partial can replace a few teeth. Conventional dentures are removable, making them easy to clean. However, some people find them uncomfortable or difficult to stabilize.
• Dental bridge – This is a fixed (nonremovable) appliance that can replace one or a few teeth. The most common type of bridge is a false tooth with crowns on each side. The crowns are placed on teeth adjacent to the gap. It is stable and natural looking but may be difficult to clean under.
• Implants – These small titanium posts are surgically placed in the bone, replicating a natural tooth root. Implants may be used to support specially designed dentures, bridges, or crowns. The process takes longer to complete than standard bridges or dentures, but the result is comparable to natural teeth in stability, comfort, aesthetics, and ease of cleaning.

Is a dental bridge right for you?

The best candidate for a traditional bridge is missing one tooth, with strong and intact teeth on both sides of the gap. If there is only a tooth on one side, a different style known as a cantilever bridge might be an option, but it may not be as strong due to less support. Additionally, a bridge can replace more than one tooth, but the longer span between crowns may weaken the restoration. Every patient is different, so an examination is needed in order to determine viable options in your specific situation.

If you are a candidate for a bridge, you will need to decide if you want the conventional crown-supported style, or if you prefer an implant supported restoration. Standard bridges are popular among patients with a tight budget or schedule, because the process only takes a few weeks and has a lower upfront cost. However, dental implants most accurately replicate natural tooth anatomy, providing the highest level of functionality and health benefits. Additionally, implant supported restorations rarely need to be replaced, making them a cost-effective option in the long term.

You have many good options. The only bad option is leaving an unattractive, unhealthy gap in your smile. The best way to explore the possibilities is to call 213-863-9464 and schedule a consultation at Downtown Dental in Los Angeles. We offer comprehensive care in one location, so that you can enjoy your best smile, at your convenience.

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