Bridge

Dental Bridges: What You Need to Know

Missing teeth can impact more than just your appearance; they can also affect how you eat and speak. That’s where dental bridges come in. They’re a fantastic option for filling in those gaps and getting your smile back to its best. Let’s dive into what dental bridges are and how they can enhance your smile and function.

The Lowdown on Dental Bridges

BridgeA dental bridge consists of two main parts: the pontic (the false tooth) and the abutments (the supporting teeth or implants). The pontic is usually made from porcelain to match your natural teeth, while the abutments are typically crowned to provide a stable support for the bridge.

Why Consider a Dental Bridge?

Dental bridges offer several benefits:

    • They can dramatically improve the look of your smile, boosting your self-esteem.
    • They restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
    • They help maintain the shape of your face and prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

Getting a dental bridge is a relatively simple process, usually requiring only a few visits to the dentist. If you’re missing teeth and want to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality, a dental bridge might be the perfect solution.  Call Sauve Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment to “bridge the gap” in your smile caused by missing teeth.

Protecting Teeth

Protecting Teeth from Injury and Disease

Protecting your teeth from injury or disease is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Here are the top 10 proactive steps you can take:

  1. Brush Twice Daily: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. This removes plaque and helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
  2. Floss Regularly: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline, areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
  3. Use Mouthwash: Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria, freshen breath, and provide an additional layer of protection against tooth decay.
  4. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Sugars and starches increase the risk of tooth decay.
  5. Drink Plenty of Water: Drink water throughout the day, especially after meals, to help wash away food particles and bacteria.
  6. Protecting TeethWear a Mouthguard: Use a mouthguard during sports or recreational activities to protect your teeth from injury.
  7. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Never use your teeth to cut, open, or tear objects, as this can lead to chips and fractures.
  8. Quit Smoking: Stop smoking or using tobacco products, as they increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.
  9. Limit Alcohol Consumption: Reduce alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to oral health problems, including increased risk of oral cancer.
  10. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Early detection and treatment of problems like tooth decay and gum disease can save your teeth.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you actively contribute to the health and longevity of your teeth, preventing injuries and diseases that can affect your overall oral hygiene and health.  At Sauve Family Dentistry, we’re eager to help you optimize your oral health and preserve your smile for a lifetime!