Dental bridges in West Palm Beach can be a simple solution to tooth loss. Using the surrounding teeth as support, we can place a dental restoration requiring no surgery, extensive waiting times, and fewer aftercare instructions. For that reason, they’ve become a go-to solution for many patients.  However, before considering any treatment, understanding it in detail is crucial to determine if it is right for you. Here are some frequently asked questions about dental bridges that can help you learn more.   Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges   If you’re considering dental restoration, bridges stand out as an accessible and quick solution. But to understand this treatment, it can be crucial to ask yourself these questions:  What Are Dental Bridges?   A dental bridge is a long-term device that uses a pontic, or artificial tooth, to fill in the space left by a missing tooth or teeth. The abutment teeth (the natural teeth on either side of the missing space) usually have crowns placed on top to create the bridge. The pontic covers the lost tooth, which is cemented into place and bonded to the abutments.    Bridges can be fixed or removed. They work well for people who have lost teeth but still have healthy neighboring teeth to support them.   What Types of Dental Bridges Are There?  There are four main types of dental bridges.  What is the Process for Getting Dental Bridges?   One of the benefits of bridges is that they’re simpler and easier to get than other restorative options, like implants. The key steps of the bridge placement process include:  Does Insurance Cover Dental Bridges?   While it depends, most dental insurance plans cover bridges under major restorative services. However, they may not cover the entirety of the treatment. Coverage usually ranges from 40% to 80% of the cost, depending on the plan, whether you’ve met your deductible, and the remaining annual maximum benefits.   Additionally, you may still have out-of-pocket costs if you opt for premium materials like all-porcelain or zirconia.   How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?   The lifespan of a dental bridge depends on several factors. The most crucial thing to keep in mind is that a dental bridge is not infallible. Similar to your natural teeth, a dental bridge’s lifespan can be significantly shortened if you neglect it or engage in behaviors like bruxism, or teeth grinding.  While many dentists predict that a bridge will last five to seven years on average, it may last longer or even a lifetime with the right maintenance.  How Can I Prevent My Dental Bridge From Getting Damaged?   Proper care habits can considerably improve the lifespan of your dental bridge.   Like normal teeth, your bridge is susceptible to cavities if you don’t brush and floss properly. The bridge’s artificial teeth may not be impacted by decay, but the abutment teeth can. Severe decay could affect the bridge’s attachment to these teeth, ultimately leading to failure.  Furthermore, blunt force can erode or shatter a bridge. Chewing on hard materials, such as ice, can put pressure on the dental bridge’s attachment to the abutment teeth. Additionally, grinding your teeth may put additional strain on the bridge.  The best ways to keep your bridge safe are to avoid chewing on hard foods and objects, be aware of the symptoms of grinding (such as migraines and jaw pain), and visit your dentist regularly.  When Do You Need to Replace a Dental Bridge?  If you have a dental bridge and notice it feels loose or different, don’t wait until your next dental appointment. Call us as soon as you notice anything amiss.  If your bridge is broken or damaged, we will do everything possible to fix or replace it as needed.  Get Dental Bridges in West Palm Beach with Confidence  Tooth loss is more than an aesthetic concern: it can be the triggering factor that puts your entire smile at risk. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding ones shift toward the available space, causing misalignment and bite issues.   Moreover, missing teeth can make it harder to eat and speak and can even affect your confidence in your grin over time. The team at CJ Dental is here to help you prevent these concerns. Together, we’ll explore all available options to restore your smile to optimal condition, so reach out!