Some dental problems result in losing a tooth. Fortunately, dental bridges were invented for those situations, so you don't have to live with a gap in your smile or compromise your quality of life. However, some people find it difficult to tell when it's time for one. Here are some signs that you may need to talk to your local dentist about bridges.

1. You Have Multiple Missing Teeth

The most indicative sign that someone needs one or more bridges is that they have several missing teeth. While some people can live comfortably with one or two missing teeth, having too many teeth removed can affect your life in the long run. This is especially true for older people. The roots of your teeth help preserve the structure of your mouth to avoid developing gum issues and ruining your other teeth. The absence of a tooth can cause the jaw bone to retract, which may start displacing your other teeth. Therefore, patients who have lost a tooth or a couple due to different causes need to consider dental bridges to prevent anything else from affecting their oral health.

2. You Have Issues With Your Existing Dental Bridge

If you already have dental bridges, you may need to replace them. Over time, a dental bridge can become loose or broken. In cases like these, you may notice the bridge move when you eat or speak. These issues are often accompanied by pain while chewing, increased gum sensitivity, and changes to your bite. A new dental bridge will be properly fitted to your mouth and should not move around, even if you touch it with your tongue or finger. Your dentist can assess the condition and quality of your bridges and determine whether they should be replaced.

3. You Have Trouble Eating

In our day-to-day lives, we use our teeth to eat most of our meals. Even a single missing tooth can make it difficult or painful to eat. If left unchecked, a gap caused by a missing tooth can cause nearby teeth to shift and negatively affect your bite. If you've noticed any of these signs, it's time to call the dentist. For many patients, dental bridges can resolve these issues.

4. You're Not Eligible for Implants

Dental implants aren't for everyone. There are a few things that can make your lifestyle incompatible with them. Certain medications make it impossible to have implants. If you take immunosuppressants, it's possible that your body will reject any implants. Similarly, medications that affect bone density may make you ineligible for dental implants. Luckily, dental bridges aren't affected by these medications. With guidance from your dentist, you will have the ideal bridges for your dental needs.

5. You Have Speech Issues

It's fairly common knowledge that missing teeth can affect your ability to eat, but this issue can also affect your ability to speak. In order to pronounce words properly, your tongue, lips, and teeth need to work together to form the correct shape. If you're missing teeth, that shape may not be achievable. When only one tooth is missing, the difference may be small enough that most people won't notice it. However, multiple missing teeth or teeth missing in the front of your mouth with cause more noticeable problems. You may even form a lisp, so it's important to consider dental bridges for a variety of treatments and prevention options.

6. Your Appearance Is Affected

You might not have pain or difficulty doing everyday things, but having multiple missing teeth can affect your appearance. Facial collapse is what happens when the shape of your face changes due to missing teeth. As the jawbone deteriorates, your cheeks may begin to sink or sag. Overall, your face may look shorter or more scrunched up. Obviously, this isn't ideal if you want to look your best. With bridges, you can prevent further deterioration and restore the look of your jaw.

These signs should help you determine whether it's time to visit the doctor and get new or replacement dental bridges. You shouldn't ignore problems regarding oral health or postpone them because they'll only worsen and can seriously affect your quality of life. According to Colgate, visiting the dentist twice a year is a good rule of thumb. Call Bedminster Family & Cosmetic Dentistry for more information or to book your appointment today!