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Bridges: Not only do
bridges alleviate the stress in your bite, they also help maintain
the shape of your face. The absence of one or more teeth may cause
a difference in chewing and speaking.
A fixed bridge, or sometimes called a fixed
partial denture, replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth and
literally bridges the gap where one or more teeth are missing. The
restoration can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain or a
combination of these materials and is bonded onto surrounding
teeth for support.
As the name implies, a fixed bridge can only
be removed by a dentist
An implant bridge attaches artificial teeth
directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue. Depending on which
type of bridge the dentist recommends, its success depends on its
foundation. So it's very important to keep your remaining teeth
healthy and strong.
Removable partial dentures usually consist of replacement teeth
attached to pink or gum-colored plastic bases, which are connected
by metal framework.
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Extractions: The
dentist will first numb the area around the tooth to be extracted
to lessen any discomfort. After the extraction, a small amount of
bleeding is normal. Follow the post extraction regiment outlined
next.Post Extraction Regiment: In
the first few days, rinse your mouth gently, afterward, for pain
or swelling, apply a cold cloth or an ice bag. Ask the dentist
about pain medication. You can brush and floss the other teeth as
usual. But don't clean the teeth next to the tooth socket.
It is important that you avoid anything that might prevent normal
healing. It is usually best not to smoke or rinse your mouth
vigorously, or drink through a straw for 24 hours. These
activities could dislodge the clot and delay healing.
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Gum Disease: Gum
disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the
tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause
of tooth loss in adults. You may not know that you have gum
disease because it is painless.
Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that
constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that
can damage the gums.
In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the
gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the
disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily
brushing and flossing.
In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called
periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth can
become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or
have to be removed by a dentist.
If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see the
dentist immediately:
 | gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
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| red, swollen or tender gums |
| gums that have pulled away from the teeth
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| bad breath that doesn't go away |
| pus between your teeth and gums |
| loose teeth |
| a change in the way your teeth fit together
when you bite |
| a change in the fit of partial dentures
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Root Canals: Due
to the advances in dentistry, today a tooth with a diseased nerve
in most cases can be saved. This special dental procedure is
called a root canal.
Inside each tooth is the pulp which provides
nutrients and nerves to the tooth, it runs like a thread down
through the root. When the pulp is diseased or injured, the pulp
tissue dies. You need to have the pulp tissue removed to avoid
infection and the loss of the tooth.
After the dentist removes the pulp, the root
canal is cleaned and sealed off to protect it. Then your dentist
places a crown over the tooth to help make it stronger.
Most of the time, a root canal is a relatively simple
procedure with little or no discomfort involving one to three
visits. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile!
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