Dental Bridge
Katy, TX
Dental Bridge provided by Dr. Melissa Wilson in Katy, TX at Wilson Dentistry
No matter how well you maintain your teeth, there is still a risk of damage due to various reasons. Dental bridges are effective if you lose your tooth to decay or any other cause. Dental bridges are a reliable and common dental restoration option to fix or replace damaged teeth. Wilson Dentistry offers professional installation of dental bridges after careful examination and preparation.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a permanent dental structure used to replace a missing tooth or multiple teeth. Dental bridges are effective in replacing missing teeth due to their compact structure. They are made of several dental crowns that give them a solid base.
Therefore, they can fill up the spaces left by missing teeth. Dental bridges are an excellent alternative if you are uncomfortable with partial dentures.
Not only do they restore tooth functionality, but they also serve aesthetic purposes. This allows you to eat, speak, and smile effortlessly. Our experts will install dental bridges quickly and give you a smile you deserve.
What Does a Dental Bridge Look Like?
A dental bridge is a metal implant that functions as the tooth root and a crown that replaces the missing tooth. The crown is designed to look like your teeth and makes your smile more natural.
Before fixing the metallic implant's crown, we ensure it resembles the surrounding teeth.Remember that dental bridges are made out of many dental crowns.
The difference between dental bridges and dentures is that you cannot remove bridges once our team applies them in your mouth. They are permanent and can last for many years.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Bridges?
There are different types of dental bridges. Knowing the different variations will help you decide if you want to have them installed. Here are the common types of dental bridges.
| • | Traditional bridges: These are the most common types of dental bridges. They consist of one or more crowns held in position by a metal implant. Also known as abutments, the dental crowns are carefully cemented onto the surrounding teeth next to the missing tooth. Traditional bridges are reliable and can last five years or more. |
| • | Cantilever bridges: Even though cantilever bridges are almost similar to traditional bridges, their false tooth is supported by a crown only on one side. This is different from traditional bridges, which are supported on both sides. We recommend cantilever bridges if you only have one natural tooth next to the missing tooth. |
| • | Maryland bridges: Maryland bridges are the most conservative ones because they use metallic frameworks to anchor into the jawbone instead of abutments. Given the strength of the metallic framework, the neighboring teeth don't need to be altered. We recommend this type of bridge for those with natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth. |
| • | Dental-implant-supported bridge: A dental-implant-supported bridge is the most permanent form of a dental bridge. This is because it is surgically inserted into the jawbone for a more natural appearance. These bridges also function as efficiently as natural teeth. However, you must undergo two procedures before getting dental implant-supported bridges. Healing from the surgery also takes longer than other types of dental bridges. |
What Are My Options for Replacing Missing Teeth?
Here are some of the options you can consider when replacing missing teeth.
| • | Fixed bridge: A fixed bridge uses your existing teeth to support the bridge placement. This is done instead of placing two implants onto your teeth. With fixed dental bridges, you can restore the functions of missing teeth. You will be able to smile, eat, and speak with ease. Our professionals will complete the fixed bridge installation over a few visits. |
| • | Partial denture: You can also choose a partial denture to replace a missing tooth. These dentures are a relatively simpler option to replace damaged or missing teeth. We recommend partial dentures if you have a few missing teeth in your mouth. They will fill the remaining spaces and help restore the functionality of your teeth. |
| • | Dental crown: These crowns are abutments placed on damaged teeth to restore their structural integrity. Generally, dental crowns are used to cover, protect, and restore the shape of your teeth. Therefore, we recommend them if dental fillings cannot fix your oral problem. |
| • | Dental implants: These are one of the most effective and reliable oral appliances. They are a tooth replacement option that looks and feels like a real tooth. Our team recommends dental implants if you need to replace multiple teeth or a single tooth in different parts of your mouth. Dental implants are highly durable and can last a lifetime if you take good care of them. |
| • | Implant-supported bridge: We recommend an implant-supported bridge if you have missing teeth in a row. What makes implant-supported bridges different from dental implants is how they are placed. With an implant-supported bridge, only the teeth found at either end of the gap are secured with implants. This makes the process easier and more effective. |
Dental Bridge FAQs
Is it Painful to Have a Dental Bridge Procedure?
It is not painful to have a dental bridge procedure. In fact, the procedure is relatively easy and painless. Before they start the process, our experts will use numbing agents to numb the area and prevent any pain or discomfort.
How Long Does it Take for a Dental Bridge to Settle?
It takes about two weeks for dental bridges to settle. You should avoid eating very hot or cold foods during this period. We also encourage you to use specialist toothpaste for sensitive teeth in the first few days after the procedure.
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
Dental bridges can last at least seven years. If you take good care of them, these oral appliances can last up to 10 years. Good care is crucial for the durability of dental bridges.
How to Clean Your Dental Bridge
To clean your dental bridge, brush using a soft-bristled toothbrush and cool water. You can also use a denture cleaner to keep the bridges clean.
Discuss Your Options: Schedule Today With Your Dentists in Katy, TX!
Dental bridges are an excellent replacement if you have missing teeth for various reasons. They help restore tooth functionality and make it possible to eat, speak, and smile effortlessly.
If you are interested in getting dental bridges, call (346) 340-5440 today. Our experts at Wilson Dentistry are ready to help you get your smile back by performing a dental bridge procedure.
