Losing a tooth can impact your ability to chew, speak clearly and feel confident in your smile. If you are missing one or more teeth in a row, a dental bridge may be an excellent option to restore your smile’s function and aesthetics. Dental bridges are custom-made restorations that fill gaps left by missing teeth, ensuring a natural appearance and long-lasting stability.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns or implants on either side of the gap. These supporting crowns are cemented onto the adjacent natural teeth or secured to dental implants, ensuring a stable and permanent restoration. The materials used for bridges, such as porcelain or ceramic, are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth for a seamless blend.
The Dental Bridge Process
Getting a dental bridge typically involves two visits to True Smiles Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. During the first appointment, the supporting teeth are prepared by reshaping them to accommodate dental crowns. Impressions are taken to create a custom bridge that matches your bite and tooth color. While your permanent bridge is being fabricated, a temporary bridge is placed to protect the exposed teeth. At the second visit, our skilled dentists will adjust the permanent bridge for fit if needed and then cement it securely into place.
Benefits of Dental Bridges
- Dental bridges offer multiple advantages beyond simply filling a gap in your smile:
- They help restore your ability to chew and speak properly, preventing additional strain on your jaw and remaining teeth.
- By closing the space left by a missing tooth, a bridge also prevents surrounding teeth from shifting out of alignment, which can lead to bite problems and further dental complications.
- A well-crafted dental bridge can enhance facial aesthetics. Missing teeth can lead to a sunken appearance in the cheeks due to lack of support, but a bridge helps maintain the natural shape and volume of your face.
With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, offering a durable and functional solution for tooth loss.
Schedule A Consultation
We invite you to call us today at 281-666-9912 to learn more about dental bridges in Houston, Texas, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Olagoke Masha or Dr. Jennifer Ogbuehi. We are happy to help you explore your options and find the best solution for your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Bridges
How do I know if I am a good candidate for a dental bridge?
A good candidate for a dental bridge has one or more missing teeth with strong natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap for support. Our dentists will evaluate your oral health and bone structure to determine if a bridge is the best solution for your needs. Maintaining good oral hygiene and having healthy gums are also important factors in determining candidacy.
How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, dental bridges can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. Regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings help maintain the health of the supporting teeth and prevent complications such as decay or gum disease, which could affect the longevity of the bridge.
Are dental bridges comfortable?
Once properly fitted, a dental bridge should feel natural and comfortable. Some patients may need a short adjustment period to get used to the new restoration, but discomfort typically fades quickly. If any irritation or bite issues persist, our dentists can make necessary adjustments to improve comfort.
How do I take care of my dental bridge?
Caring for a dental bridge involves maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing around the bridge, and using a special floss threader or water flosser to clean under the artificial tooth. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are essential to ensure the longevity of the bridge and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
What are the alternatives to dental bridges?
Alternatives to dental bridges include dental implants and removable partial dentures. Dental implants replace missing teeth without requiring support from adjacent teeth, while partial dentures provide a solution that can be removed for cleaning. Our dentists can discuss which option best suits your oral health needs and lifestyle.
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