Got Your Teeth Knocked Out While Playing Sports? Consider Dental Bridges

Replace Multiple Missing Teeth in One Procedure

As opposed to dental implants that replace one tooth at a time, dental bridges cover gaps in your mouth caused by multiple missing teeth. Your dentist will begin by taking an X-ray of the affected area to examine your jawbone. Because everyone's mouth is different, dental bridges are customized for a firm fit and complete smile.



Your neighboring teeth will act as anchors for the bridge and hold it firmly in place. Your dentist will then create an impression of your missing teeth to develop the dental bridge. Once fitted on your jawbone, the gap is covered and the synthetic teeth will closely match your natural smile. This procedure is quicker than individually replacing each missing tooth.

Quicker Healing Times

Dental bridges heal in a matter of weeks, compared to the longer recovery time for dental implants. Patients will have unique recovery times depending on the extent of the damage and their oral health. Your gums and neighboring teeth may feel tender or sore after treatment, but this feeling dies down within a few days.

Complete recovery occurs once your gums heal and the dental bridge is firmly in place. You can typically return to normal daily activities (such as school or work) within days of the procedure’s completion.



After your dental bridge is in place, make sure to practice proper oral hygiene. Maintaining a healthy diet will also keep your gums healthy and reduce the chances of tooth decay.

Less Pressure on the Underlying Bone Structure

In most cases, a dental bridge can be inserted without the need for bone grafting. Bone grafting is a procedure that strengthens your underlying jawbone to hold a dental implant in place. Because bridges use a firm base and your neighboring teeth as anchors, they exert less pressure on your jawbone. Bridges also prevent bone loss in your jaws, which may occur due to multiple missing teeth.

Reliable Option for Those With Good Oral Health

Dental bridges are a reliable option for patients with good oral health. If you're an athlete who maintains a healthy diet, practices proper oral hygiene, and has a strong bone structure, you're likely a good candidate for dental bridges. Patients with no underlying dental conditions or infections should also consider dental bridges.



Depending on the damage that occurred, your dentist may recommend traditional/cantilever bridges over Maryland bridges. A Maryland bridge provides proper fit but is less resistant to direct impact. With traditional bridges, your dentist can check for fitting issues and permanently cement the bridge during a follow-up appointment.

Dental bridges allow your dentist to cover gaps in the mouth within a shorter period and at a relatively lower cost. So if you're itching to get back on the field as soon as possible, dental bridges will replace missing teeth and restore your natural smile.

For more information on dental bridges, contact the friendly team at Davis & Beyer Dental Health Professionals.