Your teeth are designed to last for a lifetime, but many people experience tooth loss despite the latest innovations in dentistry. If you’ve lost a tooth or two, a dental bridge in Houston is an excellent solution to replace one or more consecutive missing teeth. This is a convenient way to fill the gaps in your smile, but will it also help keep decay and infection at bay? Here’s what you need to know when choosing a bridge and crowns to restore your smile.
What is a Fixed Bridge?
An impression of your mouth is used to recreate the portions of your missing teeth visible above the gum line. They are carefully crafted from all-ceramic material to look natural. The bridge is held in place by bonding dental crowns over the adjacent teeth. The abutment teeth are reshaped to allow the customized caps to be placed over the entire surface of each tooth to stabilize the bridge.
Can a Fixed Bridge Prevent Tooth Decay?
Although the abutment teeth are fully covered, they are still at risk of decay. Harmful bacteria can seep under the edge of the crown where it meets the gum line. The harmful bacteria can slowly decay and infect the tooth, causing the treatment to fail.
Thankfully, you can keep the abutment teeth strong and healthy by maintaining your oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup. It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss every night before going to bed. Pay careful attention when cleaning the crowns to remove any trapped food particles or plaque.
Can a Fixed Bridge Prevent Dental Infections?
If you don’t maintain your oral hygiene, your risk of infection can be higher because bacteria can be trapped under the bridge. If you’re committed to your oral hygiene at home and routine care from your dentist, you can effectively prevent infections. Besides brushing and flossing, adding an oral irrigator to your routine can help clean areas missed by your toothbrush.
Can a Bridge Improve My Oral Health?
Every tooth is essential to a healthy smile. Losing even one can increase your risk of common oral health issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. Your remaining teeth won’t have the support they need to stay in place. As they drift out of alignment, they become more difficult to keep clean. A fixed bridge helps provide your remaining teeth with the support they need to stay in place. This reduces dental drift prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Protecting your teeth from infection in Houston can be achieved through the right oral hygiene habits. Your dentist will explain how to care for your bridge to prevent decay and infection.
About Dr. Mark Gray
Dr. Mark Gray is a skilled general and cosmetic dentist for superior dental services. He regularly continues his training to provide advanced solutions for his patients, like CEREC technology. He can create high-quality crowns and bridges in-office. If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, contact our office today for a consultation.