“Do dental bridges damage teeth?”
I am a 39 year old female and I will get a dental bridge. Do dental bridges damage teeth?
8 Answers
No
no
Bridges are great to replace a missing tooth, but the dentist has to cut down each tooth next to the missing tooth in order to place the bridge. I would do a dental implant if possible, because it will act as a stand alone tooth replacement.
No, bridges do not damage teeth. There are specific indications for them, periodontal support must be adequate, distance between the two or more teeth involved has to be such, so pressure is not too heavy, length of teeth favorable for retention of the bridge, etc. Yes, a bridge requires cutting into tooth structure which in itself weakens the tooth or increases
possibility of undue wear on the teeth involved, especially at a young age. If done well and maintained properly, a bridge may last many, many years. Today, when the indications are right, replacing lost teeth with implants is preferred.
possibility of undue wear on the teeth involved, especially at a young age. If done well and maintained properly, a bridge may last many, many years. Today, when the indications are right, replacing lost teeth with implants is preferred.
No
It depends what kind of bridge and also the condition of your remaining teeth. I would look at a bridge as a restoration, not a way to damage your teeth.
There are two types of dental bridges, fixed and removable. Removable ones grip the teeth adjacent to the empty space. It is economical, but not very comfortable. The support teeth are not damaged so long as the appliance is kept clean. A fixed bridge involves grinding down the teeth adjacent to the space for crowns. The crowns are attached to one another with false teeth and the appliance is then cemented into the support teeth. The fixed bridge is more durable than the removable one, but costs more. No solution will ever be as good as the original teeth, but leaving the space with no bridge will lead to loss of more teeth. Best to discuss the options with a dentist. Of course, dental implants are the best alternative if they can be placed.
No. Ask your dentist about what is involved.
Dr. Sassack
Dr. Sassack
