Dental Bridges | Woodshore Family Dentistry
Dental bridges are a series of dental crowns used to bridge gaps caused by missing teeth. In this article, we discuss the advantages of dental bridges and a detailed description of the dental bridge procedure.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to bridge gaps that may be formed due to missing teeth. They are essentially a series of dental crowns placed on either side of the gap and they are supported by the anchoring teeth. There are a number of advantages of fixed dental bridges as they can help you chew better, speak better, and they also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile. Please continue reading to discuss the advantages of dental bridges, types of dental bridges, and a detailed description of the dental bridge procedure.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
The following are the primary advantages of dental bridges:
- They give you a smile makeover.
- You can chew and speak properly because of the restored teeth.
- Helps maintain the shape of your face.
- The new teeth help distribute the force of your bite.
- The remaining teeth don’t start drifting and remain in place.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are four different types of dental bridges. The following is a brief description of the various dental crowns and bridges.
Traditional Dental Bridges
Traditional dental bridges are the most popular and they include one or more fake teeth (known as pontics) held in place by dental crowns. The dental crowns are cemented in place next to the missing teeth in order to provide support to the dental bridge. The biggest issues here is that the dentist will have to shave off some of the enamel from the surrounding teeth so that dental crowns can be placed over them. That makes it a permanent dental bridge procedure. As such, these teeth will always need dental crowns because enamel doesn’t grow back and the teeth will be exposed.
Cantilever Dental Bridges
Cantilever dental bridges are also similar to traditional dental bridges. However, in this case, the fake teeth are supported by just one abutments dental bridge. As such, if there’s one natural tooth next to the gap, then a dental crown will be placed over it so that the bridge can be secured. This is also a permanent dental bridge because the dentist will need to shave the enamel off the abutment tooth in order to prepare it for the dental crown.
Maryland Dental Bridges
Maryland dental bridges are those in which the fake teeth (pontics) are held in place by metallic or porcelain abutments bonded to the back of the teeth next to the gap. In this case, however, the surrounding teeth don’t have to be shaved because there’s no need for dental crowns. This makes Maryland dental bridges a temporary dental bridge option. However, Maryland dental bridges are weaker than cantilever or traditional bridges because the framework may get between your gums and its strength will be determined by the strength of the resin abutments. As such, Maryland dental bridges aren’t suitable for use in areas like the molars because of the high biting force.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
If you have more than one missing tooth, then a series of dental implants can be positioned and the dental bridge can be secured over the implants. These dental bridges are secured by implants and they feel extremely comfortable — just like natural teeth. The biggest issue here is that the whole process can take several months and involves two surgical procedures. During the first surgery, dental implants will be placed. During the second surgery, the dental bridge will be placed on the implants.
Dental Bridge Procedure
The following is a brief overview of the steps involved in a dental bridge procedure:
- During your first session, the dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth to determine the correct course of action.
- Next, the abutment dental bridge teeth will be prepared, which may involve shaving the teeth in order to prepare them for dental crowns.
- Impressions of the teeth will be taken in order to create accurate dental bridges. The tooth shade will also be captured so the dental bridge is the same color as the surrounding teeth.
- The dentist will give you a temporary dental bridge that you can wear for a few weeks while the permanent dental bridge is being prepared. This will protect your exposed gums from damage.
- During your next session, the temporary dental bridge will be removed and the doctor will insert the new permanent dental bridge.
- The dentist will make sure that the fit is correct and then cement it in place for a few weeks.
- Finally, after a few weeks, the dentist will cement the dental bridge permanently.
PATIENT TESTIMONIALS
This place is great! Everyone is so kind and very professional. The dentist is awesome also. He takes the time to listen and gives you all the options with no pressure. They are also great with kids here. My 10 and 3 year old also do well when they come here. I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants great care for their teeth.
Laura H.
The entire office is very friendly. They go out of their way to make you feel comfortable. I really appreciated the extra time each Doctor took to review my medical history. Very gentle, kind and confident dental care.
Paula H.
I can’t say enough about my experience at this dental office! The entire staff was very friendly, from the second I walked in to the time I walked out. The doctor took the time to explain all that was going on, and he was very gentle in his approach which is what I like. Highly recommend this place!
Shaan
Me and my wife had been looking for a new dentist and we finally found them. This group of people are great. Extremely courteous and good at what they do. I couldn’t be more pleased with our new dentists and would highly recommend them to anyone.
Paul S.
The staff was so friendly and helpful. You can tell they really care about their patients and love what they do. They all made the experience really easy & comfortable. Highly recommend!
Kurstie P.
Hadn’t been to the dentist in 3 years because I just didn’t like it… tried this one out. Very kind and professional staff, friendly, outgoing, made me feel welcome. Definitely would recommend this dentist
Meena D.
The office is very clean and my daughter loved the tv in the ceiling to watch while her work was being done. Thanks again to the staff and doctor for making her feel comfortable.
Michael J.
Great customer service from check in to check out! It was my daughter’s first dental appointment and the staff made her very comfortable!
Santanna W.
The staff was very welcoming and friendly! Dr. Pattni explained my plan thoroughly and made sure I was comfortable during my treatment which I really appreciated. They also perform orthodontic work at affordable prices which is great because now I only have to go to one office for all of my dental needs. Not to mention the decor, ambiance, and state-of-the-art equipment is truly exceptional! Will definitely be coming back!
Anjani P.
FAQs About Dental Bridges
Dental bridge or dental implant. Which is the best for me?
Dental bridge is the preferred procedure if several of your teeth are missing or damaged or if your teeth have been missing for a long duration. Dental implants are suitable if you’re only missing one tooth and if it has only gone missing recently. You should consult your dentist to determine which is the best option for your specific needs.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a series of pontics, or fake teeth, placed in between two anchoring teeth in order to fill up the gap left behind by one or more missing teeth.
How long does a dental bridge last?
Dental bridges can last between 5 to 15 years, especially if you take care of your oral hygiene.
What materials are dental bridges made of?
Dental bridges are made of various materials such as gold, porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic, or plastic.
What are the best solutions for replacing a missing tooth?
The best solution for replacing a missing tooth is to get dental crowns or dental bridges because they look and feel just like real teeth and they can last a lifetime.
How much does a dental bridge cost?
The cost of dental bridges varies greatly depending on the number of missing teeth, the location of treatment, the type of dental bridge used, etc.
How does a dental bridge help in teeth fixing?
A dental bridge essentially replaces missing teeth and bridges gaps between teeth.
What are the pros and cons of dental crowns versus bridge?
Both dental crowns and bridges are useful in their own respective ways. Dental crowns are used to protect or cover a worn or damaged tooth. Dental bridges can’t cover damaged tooth — they are rather used to replace missing teeth.
Affordable Dental Bridges Houston, TX
Are you looking for affordable dental bridges Houston, TX? At Woodshore Family Dentistry, we have some of the country’s best dentists and we carefully examine your teeth and curate a unique treatment plan for your needs. We design dental bridges that can perfectly replace your missing teeth and enhance your cosmetic appearance. Do you want to restore your smile and fill up those gaps between your teeth? If so, schedule an appointment with the best affordable dental bridges dentist today!