When you lose a tooth, it usually does not end with one tooth. The rest of your teeth are more likely to wear down and you'll likely lose them as well. The loss of your tooth may lead to your jaw bone degenerating and this could also lead to other dental problems. Fortunately, turning to a dental bridge is one great way to not only replace lost teeth, but also prevent you from losing more.

Jaw Bone Deterioration

If you often lift weights, your muscles will become stronger. However, if you have an extended period of time where you haven't lifted weights, you may begin to notice your muscles deteriorate. This can also happen with your smile. Bones need to be stimulated to become stronger.

The chewing that you engage in is necessary to keep your bones strong. However, you won't be applying force evenly across your jaw bone if you do not have all of your teeth. For example, if you are only able to chew on one side of your mouth, this can lead to the jaw bone on the other side of your mouth deteriorating with time.

Bone deterioration can change your appearance by changing your facial structure. Losing teeth completely changes the structure of your jaw. However, you can correct this through a bridge because it consists of a series of teeth known as pontics, which are fixed on both sides by dental crowns.

These crowns are supported by abutment teeth, which remain on each side of your missing teeth. The materials used to create the dental bridge consist of metal, ceramics and porcelain, but they will look indistinguishable from your actual teeth.

Shifting Teeth

After losing a tooth, your other teeth are likely to shift out of position. This can negatively effect your smile and can also affect your ability to chew. Instead, you'll want a dental bridge that can distribute the forces on your teeth properly when you bite.

The Cost of a Dental Bridge

Dental bridges can be used if you have only lost one tooth. However, this treatment is even more effective when you have lost multiple teeth. Patients often go without replacing their missing teeth because of the cost of a dental implant surgery. However, dental bridge services can replace your teeth at an affordable price and you'll be able to save yourself from more expensive dental procedures down the road if your smile further deteriorates.

For more information, contact places such as the Henderson Family Dentistry.