Since each tooth supports the one next to it, missing one or more teeth can negatively impact your oral health.
A dental bridge is an effective way to fill the gap, restoring functionality and appearance. Though, while it comes with a long list of long-term benefits, it does require some getting used to since it changes the way your mouth feels.
Let’s take a look at how long it takes to get used to a dental bridge.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge fills gaps left behind by missing teeth. There are a couple of ways this is done, including traditional bridges and dental implant-supported bridges. Both work well to fill the space, restoring the bite and aesthetics.
Traditional bridges use the healthy teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. Dental crowns attached the bridge to the natural teeth, securely filling the space and holding the artificial teeth in place.
Dental implant-supported bridges are held in place by the implant itself. The number of implants that will be needed to maintain the integrity of the bridge will depend on how many teeth you are replacing.
Filling these gaps is so important as it prevents future oral health concerns. After all, not addressing these open spaces can cause teeth to shift, affecting your bite and putting you at greater risk of tooth decay. It can also change your facial structure and lead to bone loss.
Getting Used to a Dental Bridge
Both traditional bridges and dental implant-supported bridges work well to replace missing teeth, but they also take some getting used to.
Your dental bridge is new hardware that has been added to your mouth. It is going to change the way everything feels – especially when speaking and eating. It is important to know that this is normal and temporary.
Following the dental bridge procedure, you may notice some tooth sensitivity, soreness while chewing, and even changes in your bite. Don’t get discouraged, any discomfort you feel should dissipate within a couple of days.
But how long does it take to get used to your new dental bridge? When will it begin to feel normal?
You can expect your dental bridge to begin feeling like it has fully integrated with your natural teeth in about two weeks. After this time frame, you should be used to the way it feels, eating and speaking without even thinking twice about it.
Keep in mind that dental implant-supported bridges are done in phases over time and take a bit longer to fully complete compared to traditional bridges. This means that your teeth may feel a bit different at different times throughout the process. But again, once they are fully complete and the gap has been filled with a bridge, give it two weeks and it will start feeling normal.
Are You a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
To preserve your oral health, it is important to replace missing teeth. Are you a candidate for a dental bridge? Periodontal Associates will be able to guide you through the process so that you have the greatest chance of success – and long-term oral health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices.