Tooth loss is not a new problem.

For nearly as long as we have recorded history, we have examples of people trying to replace missing teeth. Some ancient cultures used stones. Others used seashells, and still others tried using animal bones.

Today, we have much better options for replacing teeth that have fallen out, been knocked out, or have been removed. Dental bridges are made of lifelike ceramics that are durable enough to restore the function of your teeth as well.

If you or someone you care about could benefit from a bridge, make plans to visit Dr. Mark W. Wilhelm in Woodbury, MN. Call651-319-9064 to schedule an appointment.

In the meantime, keep reading to learn a little more about modern bridges.

Traditional Bridges Can Help

If you are missing a few teeth, a traditional bridge can fill in the blank space in your smile.

Modern bridges are created with a special porcelain that mimics the appearance of real teeth. When it’s put in place, you will be able to bite, chew, smile, and speak again.

To get one of these bridge, the first step is reshaping nearby teeth. These teeth will act as abutments that support your bridge. The number of teeth that need to be reshaped will vary based on the number of teeth you are missing.

These kinds of bridges can last for years, but when they do you may need to reshape more teeth. That’s also a good reason to consider a more modern type of bridge.

Implant-Supported Bridges Can Do More

The first modern dental implants were placed in a human patient in the 1960s. These were meant as replacements for the roots of lost and missing teeth.

Like your roots, implants are placed directly in your jawbone. This provides support for your bridge without making changes to your remaining healthy teeth.

Having an implant-supported bridge has some big advantages. For starters, it provides an added level of strength and stability to your bridge. It also allows you to bite with practically as much force as you could before you lost your teeth.

The implants also help to fight bone loss by stimulating your jawbone with every bite and chew that you make. By doing this, you also reduce your risk of losing more teeth.

One more benefit we need to mention has to do with the bridge itself. If your bridge does wear out and need to be replaced, more than likely you will be able to place your new bridge on your implants. Again, there’s no need to touch your healthy teeth since the implants are providing the support.

Recreate More Than Just Your Smile

Many people feel self-conscious about losing teeth, so it’s OK if you want to restore your smile for cosmetic reasons. Just remember that your teeth do more than just give you a complete smile. They also affect how you speak and what you are able to eat.

At Dr. Wilhelm’s office, we can help you restore the full function of your missing teeth. Call 651-319-9064 or contact us online if you want to find out which kind of dental bridge is right for you.