When you lose a tooth, there are a myriad of restorative options that you could consider. One of the most common methods that patients will opt for are dentures. However, these do not provide a permanent solution, and you would have to take them out regularly to keep them clean and well maintained. If you prefer a more permanent solution than dental implants, you could consider having a dental bridge installed. Here are some of the pros and cons of opting for this type of restorative treatment.

Dental bridges are natural looking

When you opt for a dental bridge, you not only get the opportunity to restore the missing tooth, but you can also opt to improve upon the appearance of your teeth. Your dentist can alter the shape of the new prosthetic teeth as well as the colour to make them appear as natural as possible. One of the popular materials used to do this is porcelain. Not only does it make it harder for people to spot that you have false teeth, but porcelain is also resistant to stains, so you can rest assured you will have a pearly white smile.

Dental bridges are permanent

If you prefer a low maintenance form of restoration, then dental bridges would work better than opting to have partial dentures installed. Once the bridgework is complete, all you would be required to do is clean your teeth as you normally do rather than having to take out your prosthetic teeth for additional care and maintenance.

Dental bridges offer protection to adjacent teeth

If you lost your teeth due to trauma, chances are your adjacent teeth may have acquired some cracks and chips in the process. Rather than replacing these too, they can be capped with crowns that will support the bridgework. This aids in keeping your adjacent teeth strong whilst filling the gap brought about by the missing tooth or teeth.

Installing dental bridges is quick

Nobody wants to keep setting multiple appointments with their dentists. However, some restorative methods will require this to ensure you are getting the appropriate replacement for your missing teeth. If you would like to avoid numerous dental visits, then bridgework would be your best bet.

It should be noted though that dental bridges do not come without their own con. The biggest disadvantage is if your adjacent teeth are still healthy. For the dental bridge to fit appropriately, these healthy teeth may have to be filed down so that crowns can fit firmly and support the bridge, thus compromising their structural integrity.

For more informaiton, contact a professional dentist, such as Dr Ravi Pather.