At our Dallas dental clinic, we offer dental bridges to fill gaps left by missing teeth. Dental bridges can restore both the look and function of your smile, helping it look natural and feel complete again. If you are looking for a way to fill spaces and bring back your confident smile. A dental bridge might be the restorative dental treatment for you!
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge uses crowns on either side of a false tooth to fill the empty space. These crowns anchor the bridge to the surrounding teeth, which keeps it secure and allows it to blend in naturally with the rest of your smile. This treatment is a great option for patients who are missing one or more teeth.
People lose teeth for many reasons, such as untreated decay, injury, or gum disease. In some cases, patients may even be born with gaps. Regular dental visits and good care can prevent tooth loss, but if you have gaps in your smile, bridges can help fill them. For a bridge to work, you need healthy teeth on either side of the space to support it.
Why Consider a Dental Bridge?
Missing teeth can cause more than just a gap in your smile. Over time, the surrounding teeth may begin to shift into the empty space, which can affect how you chew, cause pain in your jaw, and impact your bite. This shift can also change your appearance and make you feel self-conscious.
Dental bridges are a great way to prevent these issues. At East Quarter Dental, our goal is to help you live comfortably and confidently. A missing tooth can affect your quality of life, and a dental bridge can make a big difference by restoring your smile and reducing stress on your jaw.
How Is a Dental Bridge Placed?
Getting a dental bridge usually takes at least two visits to our Dallas office. Here is what you can expect during the process:
- Preparing the Supporting Teeth: Your dentist will start by preparing the teeth on either side of the gap, called the abutment teeth. They will reshape these teeth by removing some enamel to make room for the crowns. This step is essential to ensure that the bridge fits well and stays secure.
- Taking Impressions: Next, we will take impressions or digital scans of your mouth. These impressions will be used to create a custom bridge that fits comfortably in your mouth. You’ll get a temporary bridge to protect your teeth while we wait for the permanent one.
- Placing the Permanent Bridge: Once your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll return to our Dallas office. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check the fit of the new one, making adjustments if needed. Once everything feels comfortable and secure, they will cement the bridge in place.
Types of Dental Bridges
Dentists can use four main types of dental bridges to meet different needs:
- Traditional Fixed Bridges: This is the most common type. It includes two or more crowns that anchor the bridge to surrounding teeth. These bridges are often made of porcelain for a natural look and are very sturdy.
- Cantilever Bridges: If you only have teeth on one side of the gap, a cantilever bridge will be best. It anchors to a single tooth, making it ideal for certain situations where support is limited.
- Maryland Bridges: This option works well for missing front teeth. It consists of a metal or porcelain framework that holds the false tooth in place and attaches to the back of the surrounding teeth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: These bridges are similar to traditional ones but dental implants support them instead of crowns on natural teeth. Implants provide strong support, making these bridges very stable and durable.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Dental bridges replace one or multiple consecutive missing teeth. The answers to these questions can help you learn more.
What are the types of dental bridges?
There are four main types of bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported. Traditional bridges are the most common, using crowns on adjacent teeth for support. Implant-supported bridges are the most durable, relying on dental implants instead of natural teeth.
How long does it take to get a dental bridge?
The process typically requires two visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth (supporting teeth), takes impressions, and places a temporary bridge. The permanent bridge is fitted and cemented into place at the second visit. Implant-supported bridges may require several months to complete.
How long do dental bridges last?
Dental bridges typically last 10-15 years with proper care, but they can last longer with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. The longevity also depends on the material used and the health of the supporting teeth or implants.
Can I eat normally with a dental bridge?
Yes, you can eat normally with a dental bridge after it is securely placed. However, you should avoid sticky or hard foods while wearing a temporary bridge. Permanent bridges are durable enough to handle regular chewing, though avoiding excessive pressure is still wise.
How does a dental bridge affect my speech?
A dental bridge can improve speech by filling gaps caused by missing teeth, which can affect pronunciation. It may take a short adjustment period to get used to speaking with a new bridge, but most patients find their speech improves quickly.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for a dental bridge?
You may be a candidate if you have one or more missing teeth, healthy adjacent teeth or implants for support, and good oral hygiene. Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and discuss the best restoration options.
Is a Dental Bridge Right for You?
If you or someone you know is missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge could be the perfect solution. Our dental bridges will restore both the look and function of your smile. Not only will a bridge improve your bite and prevent other teeth from shifting, but it can also boost your confidence.
Our Dallas dental office serves the Dallas community and surrounding areas, including Highland Park and Lake Highlands. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about dental bridges. Call us at 469-529-5401 to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a dental bridge could benefit you. Let us help you enjoy a complete, healthy smile once again!