Restorative Dentistry

Dental Bridges

Contact us

Losing a tooth can be both an embarrassing and a frightening experience. However, many people who suffer from tooth loss tend to minimize just how important it is to have all of their teeth intact. It is not merely a cosmetic issue, but an oral health issue as well. Pecan Park Dental has handled a number of tooth loss or decay cases and can help you to return your smile to its former brilliance.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain-fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

The benefits of a dental bridge

When you lose a tooth or multiple teeth, the remaining teeth in your mouth are greatly affected by this. The teeth that still remain gradually shift and can even move out of their sockets to fill the now-empty space. This can lead to such issues as an incorrect bite, compromised ability to chew while eating, and wrinkles and fine lines due to an alteration of facial features. Dental bridges fill the gap that the missing tooth has left, and help to remedy all of the issues mentioned above.

Reasons to get a dental bridge

  • Fill space of missing teeth
  • Maintain facial shape
  • Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
  • Restore chewing and speaking ability
  • Restore your smile
  • Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance

What is the process of getting a dental bridge?

Getting a dental bridge usually requires a couple of office visits. During the first visit, your dentist will make certain that the teeth surrounding the gap are strong and healthy. IIf not, a building agent will be applied in order to strengthen the tooth. Once complete, the teeth are numbed and the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to make room for a crown. Next, an impression (mold) is made which is sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In the meantime, you will have a temporary bridge for a few weeks until your next appointment.

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will then be permanently cemented at a later time. You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.

Who is a candidate for a dental bridge?

Ideal dental bridge candidates are those who have one or more missing teeth that are surrounded on either side by healthy teeth. Also, if the teeth surrounding the missing teeth are treatable, then you are a good candidate for dental bridges as well. Those who are not ideally suited for dental bridges are young children who do not yet have their permanent teeth and individuals who are missing multiple teeth which are bordered on either side by teeth that are decaying or otherwise unhealthy.

If you are missing teeth and would like to have a smile that you can be proud to show off again, then please don’t hesitate to call to find out how Pecan Park Dental can help you to look your very best and improve your oral health.

Family smiling after seeing our dentist in Arlington, TX.

Unlock Your Perfect Smile At Our Arlington Dental Office

If you’re looking for a skilled yet gentle dentist in Arlington, our caring team is here to help you achieve and maintain healthy teeth for life!