Do you have multiple missing teeth in a row? Try a dental bridge. We provide dental bridge treatment for patients with one or more consecutive missing teeth in Dallas, TX. A bridge is a restorative dentistry treatment that uses tooth-colored false teeth and the support of natural teeth or dental implants.
A dental bridge is a reliable solution. Bridges use tooth-colored false teeth that seamlessly blend with your natural teeth. This treatment restores proper chewing function and prevents neighboring teeth from shifting out of place. Our experienced team ensures that each dental bridge is custom-made to fit comfortably and securely for a natural-looking tooth replacement.
Common Types of Bridges
Tooth bridges use pontics and abutments. Pontics are false teeth that fill missing tooth gaps. Abutments keep the bridge in place. Often, abutments are crowns or implants.
- Traditional Bridge: This bridge consists of two crowns placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a prosthetic tooth in between. The crowns hold the new tooth in place. While this is a common solution, it means we must prepare natural teeth for crowns.
- Cantilever Bridge: Unlike traditional bridges, cantilever dental bridges use support from only one side. The false tooth is attached to a crown that is cemented onto a natural tooth next to the gap. Cantilever bridges are often used when there is only one natural tooth available to support the bridge.
- Maryland Bridge: A Maryland dental bridge uses a metal framework attached to the back of the adjacent teeth with a strong adhesive. The replacement tooth, called a pontic, is then attached to the framework. It fills in the gap left by the missing tooth.
How Many Teeth Do Bridges Replace?
A bridge can replace one to three teeth in a row. We do not recommend that traditional bridges replace more than that amount. Instead, we recommend implant bridges or partial dentures. Your bone density and the health of your surrounding teeth and gums will impact the number of teeth your bridge replaces.
Dental Bridge Treatment in Dallas, TX
The most common bridge dentists use is a traditional dental bridge. It supports teeth on either side of a tooth gap. Dentists prepare these natural teeth for dental crowns, or caps, that hold the dental bridge in place.
While traditional dental bridges are a quick and efficient way to replace one or more missing teeth, we will often recommend dental implants to secure bridges.
Why Choose Implant Bridges?
Dental implants in our Dallas, TX office can secure dental bridges for a longer-lasting and more functional restoration. Implants act as replacement teeth and support dental restorations like bridges at the root. Implants consist of titanium posts an oral surgeon places in the jaw bone. Once the implant post heals, it can support a bridge.
If you choose implant-secured bridges, we will place the dental implant or implants first and then the dental bridge. While it will take time for the implants to heal after surgery, the results will be worth it.
A single dental implant can also prevent the need for a dental bridge. You will not need a bridge if you have one missing tooth and adjacent healthy teeth. A dental bridge will damage natural teeth adjacent to your tooth cap for dental crowns. Instead, you can receive a single implant without affecting natural, healthy teeth.
Am I a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
If you’re considering a dental bridge to replace missing teeth, the first step is to schedule a consultation at our office. During this visit, we will take digital X-rays of your teeth, gums, and jaw to get a clear picture of your oral health. These images help us determine if you’re a good candidate for a dental bridge and identify any issues we must address before treatment.
If you have any dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease, they could affect the stability of your bridge. We may recommend pretreatments to prepare your mouth for the bridge in such cases. These pretreatments include tooth extractions, root canal therapy, or dental filling.
Sometimes, you may want an implant-supported bridge, which uses dental implants to hold the bridge in place. However, you’ll need to have enough healthy jawbone to support the implants for this option. If your jawbone is too thin or weak, we may recommend bone grafting to build up the bone before placing the implants. This ensures that the implants will be stable and the bridge will fit securely.
Generally, a dental bridge is a great option for patients with one or more missing teeth and good oral health. Even if you need pretreatments, we can work with you to ensure you’re a good candidate for a dental bridge. These extra steps might extend the overall treatment time, but they ensure your bridge lasts e and fits comfortably in your mouth.
How To Care for Dental Bridges
As with other restorations, you must clean your dental bridge by brushing and flossing daily. You can brush gently as you would with natural teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. However, you can use a floss threader to clean around the false tooth and beneath the bridge.
We also recommend regular dental visits so we can ensure that your bridge fits properly and stays comfortable. If you get an implant-supported bridge, you are less likely to need repairs. You will not need to rebase your bridge.
A traditional bridge will last 5 to 10 years. With the right care, an implant-supported bridge can last over 15 years without replacement. You will not need to replace your implants. The implant posts will stay in your mouth permanently.
Restore Missing Teeth Today
Are you missing one or more teeth? Get a dental bridge in Dallas, TX today. Contact our dental office for a dental bridge consultation online. You can also call Lochwood Family Dental at 214-544-9633.
Please let us know if you have questions about your dental bridge options. We will help you find the best restoration to meet your needs.