Patients that are extremely careful about their own overall health and well-being may find themselves struggling with any number of oral health complications in their lifetime. Not only are these conditions extremely prevalent in individuals of all ages, they could also increase the person's risk of developing other ailments and health complications such as the diabetes, dementia, and heart disease. One of the most common issues experienced nowadays is tooth loss, and more individuals than ever are turning to their dentists to find an effective, comfortable, and long-term treatment for this condition.

Patients that have lost one or more teeth in a row may be good candidates for dental bridges. Dental bridges have remained a very popular and effective treatment option for many years, and modern advances within the field of dentistry make them more appealing than ever. Here is a look at exactly why tooth loss occurs as well as the primary components of dental bridges and how they are held within the mouth.

A healthy tooth will last for an individual's entire lifetime as it can continue to reinforce and strengthen itself over the years. This is accomplished due to the unique layers that interact with one another, drawing in nutrients and then re-mineralizing the outer layers. If any of the major layers of a tooth are badly damaged and cannot be restored, tooth loss may take place.

Dental bridges are a very typical option as they literally "bridge" the gap that has been created by missing teeth. They can be made from a number of unique materials and can also be held within the mouth in various manners. For the majority of traditional metal bridges there will be two main parts. The first is the abutment teeth that are used to anchor the dental bridges into place. The abutment teeth can be dental crowns that are placed directly over the patient's natural teeth and then bonded into place.

Abutments can also be attached to advanced dental implants for individuals that would like a more permanent solution to their tooth loss. Dental implants are surgical-grade rods that are placed in the mouth in the area that has been exposed by the lost teeth. They will form a very powerful bond to the jaws in a process referred to as osseointegration. Abutments and dental bridges can then be attached to the implants for a complete restoration of the appearance and function of the patients smile.

The dentist will also work closely with the patient and a specialty manufacturer to create the pontics, or "false teeth." These will be built to closely resemble the size, shape, and tone of the patient's natural teeth for a more attractive and appealing appearance that will stand up to years of wear and tear.

You can visit BestLosAngelesDentist.com to learn more about this treatment. Our Los Angeles dental bridges specialist can provide you with more information as