In March of this year, the International & American Associations for Dental Research reported on a study which concluded that depression and anxiety are associated with tooth loss. 76,292 adults completed a lengthy telephone survey, and 13.4% of participants revealed experiencing anxiety, 16.7% reported depression, and 5.7% reported total tooth loss. Those who suffered from anxiety, depression, or a combination of the two had different experiences with tooth loss than the participants without depression or anxiety. According to this thorough study, depression and anxiety seem to accompany tooth loss. Your Rochester dentists Dr. Gilly Calcagno and Dr. Kara Heimer recognize the relationship between tooth loss and feelings of depression or disappointment. That is why they provide dental bridges and other teeth replacement systems with gentle, professional care. Test your knowledge of dental bridges in their True/False quiz.
Questions
- True or False. A dental bridge is able to replace only one tooth.
- True or False. A dental bridge can match the color of your existing teeth.
- A dental bridge can be placed in two simple visits.
- A dental bridge lasts only five years.
Answer Key
- False. A dental bridge can actually replace multiple teeth in a row. A bridge is comprised of one or more artificial teeth that are anchored by two crowns on the ends of the bridge. The crowns rest atop healthy teeth that have been reshaped to accept crowns.
- True. Dr. Calcagno or Dr. Heimer will note the shade of the teeth alongside the bridge so that the color matches. Their goal is to produce a consistent shade in your smile so that the bridge looks natural but with excellent functioning.
- True. A dental bridge can be placed in two visits. At the first visit, your doctors will obtain an impression of your mouth that is sent to a dental lab. While the dental lab is constructing the bridge, Dr. Calcagno or Dr. Heimer will place a temporary bridge in your mouth to protect your teeth and gums. Then, when the dental lab has completed the bridge, your dentists will call you in for a second appointment in which they will permanently attach the bridge after ensuring a comfortable fit.
- False. Dental bridges can last 5 to 15 years or more. Maintaining dental check ups every six months and brushing and flossing on a daily basis will protect your dental bridge from rapid decline.
About Our Doctors
Calcagno Family & Cosmetic Dentistry provides top-notch family and cosmetic dentistry in a welcoming environment. If you would like to schedule a consultation at our Rochester office, please call (507) 218-8936. Dr. Calcagno and Dr. Heimer proudly treat patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, Austin, and the surrounding communities.
