If you are missing a few teeth, your dentist may have a wide range of treatment options for you. Depending on whether you need to replace an entire set of teeth or just fill in the gaps, you may have choices like dentures, dental implants, and bridges. Before you step in to get dental bridges in Columbia, SC, here are some details worth knowing.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is an appliance that’s used for replacing missing teeth. There are four types of dental bridges – traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and dental implant-supported. The first three options rely on the adjacent teeth, which work as the abutment for the dental bridge. Bridges supported by dental implants tend to be stronger and last considerably longer. With primary care, dental bridges can last for years, although one may need replacement at some point.

Should you consider dental bridges?

Your dentist is the only person who can decide whether you would benefit from a dental bridge. A dental bridge is usually recommended to fill the space of missing teeth. However, your dentist may also consider the option to prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting and to maintain facial shape. With a dental bridge, you may enjoy better comfort while speaking and eating, which could be a great way to restore your smile. If you have a partial denture, consider going for a bridge that is fixed and works as a permanent option.

What is the procedure like?

You may need to see your dentist at least twice to get a dental bridge. Your dentist will first file the abutment teeth by removing a part of the enamel, making room for the crown. Impressions are then taken and sent to a lab where a custom dental bridge would be made for you. In between, you may consider getting a temporary dental bridge. During your dental visit, the dentist will check if the new dental bridge fits you well and will cement the same in place. You will also have a bunch of aftercare instructions to follow, but you can usually keep up with your oral care routine as usual.

Wrapping up

Getting a dental bridge is not painful and is almost the same as getting a crown. The outcome is usually very satisfactory, and your dentist will explain whether and when you need to replace the bridge in the future. Keep up with your appointments and checkups as usual.

Whether you are getting new dental implants or need impacted wisdom teeth removed, you will have to go for oral surgery, which is scary for many people. Every time we hear the word “surgery,” we have our concerns, but the good news is most oral surgeries are completed within hours, and you don’t have to typically stay over for the night. Find a reliable Fort Myers, FL dentist who specializes in oral surgery so that you feel comfortable during the process. In this post, we are sharing essential details about preparing for oral surgery.

Understand the procedure

You are more likely to suffer from nervousness and mixed feelings when you don’t understand what’s going to happen during oral surgery. A good dentist or oral surgeon will ensure that you have a fair idea of what to expect from the procedure. You need to ask questions like –

1. Do I really need to consider oral surgery?
2. How long will the surgery take?
3. Would you use local or general anesthesia?
4. Do I need to bring someone along? Can I drive back home alone?
5. What medications do I need to stop before the oral surgery? For how long should I avoid these medicines?
6. What would be my typical recovery period? What would be the aftercare instructions?
7. What complications do I need to know about? How do I know that I should contact you?

Get ready food in your pantry

You won’t be able to eat normal food immediately after oral surgery, and therefore, you need to stock up on your panty. Get ready soups, shakes, and everything else that wouldn’t require a lot of prep work and are easy to chew. Avoid foods that are too spicy or hard to chew, especially for a week. Regardless of the surgery you are going for, these aspects remain the same. Ask the dentist about the dos and don’ts you must follow immediately.

Ask if you need to fast

Like most surgeries, oral surgeries often have pre-operative requirements, and your dentist may ask you to fast for a while before you step in. If you have been asked to take a few medications, take them on time.

Prepare for aftercare

After your oral surgery, you may need someone to drive you back home or be around to help with the aftercare instructions. Consider if you can get a friend to live with you for at least a week, and if the procedure involves using general anesthesia, make sure you have all the arrangements ready at home.

Make your room before you go for the procedure so that you can come back and relax.