Woodinville - Dental Bridge Candidates

A healthy and attractive smile is a goal that is shared by most dental patients, but this goal can never be achieved if adult tooth loss goes untreated. As unfortunate as it is, adult tooth loss is a common problem for our dental patients. When teeth are lost, the entire structure of the mouth is affected and even the simplest of oral functions may become difficult. By addressing tooth loss, the dentists at Signature Smiles can restore a beautiful smile that functions properly. Dental bridges fill in gaps of missing teeth and allow patients to enjoy an attractive and healthy smile once more. There are many restorative dental treatments to consider when adults lose their teeth. To learn more about dental bridge candidates, contact our Woodinville practice.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a dental fabrication that mimics a lost tooth or small set of teeth. This restoration is called a “bridge” because it spans the gap between two teeth and fills in the open space that is left by tooth loss. Dental bridges consist of a pontic piece, which is a single fabrication that can be designed to resemble multiple teeth. This pontic piece can be anchored by either dental crowns (which are affixed to adjacent teeth) or dental implants (which are surgically placed in the jaw bone).

Am I a Candidate?

With the large number of restorative treatment options that are available to those who have lost adult teeth, it can be difficult to determine which treatment option is best. Dental bridges are a great treatment option for many of our patients, but they are not the most appropriate treatment option in all cases. Dental bridges are ideal when a unique set of guidelines is met. Below are some specifications that make for an ideal dental bridges candidate:

• The patient has a lost a single tooth, or set of teeth, from a single area of the mouth
• The gap of missing teeth is surrounded by adjacent healthy teeth
• The patient has good oral health, which includes healthy gums
• The structure of the jaw and face has been compromised by tooth loss
• The patient has ample jaw bone (when dental implants will be used)

In cases such as these, our dentists are likely to recommend a dental bridge. However, if a patient is not believed to be an ideal candidate for a dental bridge, we will be happy to discuss alternative treatment options.

Benefits of a Dental Bridge

A dental bridge can be beneficial to those who are candidates for treatment. A dental bridge is a comfortable, attractive, and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth. These restorations complete the smile so that patients can comfortably complete oral tasks, while maintaining the structure of the mouth and face.

Schedule an Appointment

If you have lost one or more of your adult teeth and are interested in learning about your restorative dental treatment options, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists at Signature Smiles at your earliest convenience. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you to choose a dental treatment option that will restore a healthy and beautiful smile!