If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, and you decided on Dental Bridges in Lincolnwood, IL to replace them, you may have a question or two about the procedure or perhaps the care it will take to maintain it afterwards. Unlike a partial or dentures, a bridge is permanently fixed into the mouth. The teeth on either side of where the bridge will be anchored must be strong and stable. The entire procedure will take at least a few appointments, as there are evaluations that need to be done, and the area will need to prepared for the bridge by placing crowns on the anchoring teeth. A mold of the area can then be taken so that the tooth can be made to the exact specifications needed. The downside of this process will be the waiting time. The teeth need to be fashioned in a lab, and it could take a few weeks to make the tooth and construct the new bridge. You will be given a temporary bridge to wear while waiting, so you don’t have to worry about feeling self conscious.
Taking good care of your new dental bridge is very important to help it last as long as possible and keep it looking its best. Good oral hygiene is a must and will require you to be even more diligent than you were before you had the bridge. The nature of the bridge work makes it easy for food particles to get stuck, which can cause decay and odor if not removed.
It is also important to keep in mind that bridge work is not quite as strong as the natural teeth and you will need to avoid eating hard or sticky foods and also take care not to clench the jaw or grind the teeth. Because tooth grinding is often a problem that occurs when sleeping, Dr. Saul Legator DDS can fit you with a device you can wear at night if needed.
With proper care, Dental Bridges in Lincolnwood, IL can last five to ten years before they need to be replaced. Proper care will include brushing and flossing, as well as seeing your dentist for regular exams for cleanings and repairs.