Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges

Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Bridges from All Smiles Dental Center in San Antonio, TXMany dental patients are self-conscious about missing teeth. Depending on the exact teeth that have been lost, this condition can also make it difficult to chew food. In many cases, a dental bridge can be used to replace lost teeth and restore a patient's smile.

How do dental bridges work?

As the name suggests, a dental bridge uses an artificial tooth (called a "pontic") to bridge a gap in a patient's teeth. If pontics are not implanted into the jawbone, they need to connect to existing teeth.

Dental bridges connected to natural teeth

A traditional dental bridge connects the pontic to two dental crowns on either side of the gap. In this procedure, each tooth on either side of the gap is fitted with a dental crown, and the pontic is cemented to each crown. A simpler variant of the traditional bridge is the cantilever bridge, which connects a pontic to a single dental crown.

In some cases, a patient may prefer not to have the teeth on either side of a gap fitted with crowns. For these patients, a Maryland bridge may be a solution. A Maryland bridge also uses a pontic, but it is cemented to the natural teeth on either side of a dental gap. There is no need to fit these teeth with dental crowns, which simplifies the procedure.

Implant-supported bridges

For patients missing multiple teeth in a row, it is impossible to connect a pontic to two natural teeth. In these cases, implant-supported bridges may be advisable. For example, if a patient is missing three teeth in a row, the dental provider may place two implants and cement a pontic in the middle.

Getting implant-supported bridges tends to take longer than with other bridge types. Generally, an initial surgery places the implants, and the bridge is only placed after the implants have healed and successfully integrated with the jawbone. While the procedure takes more time, implant-supported bridges are usually considered to be the most stable and long-lasting bridge option available.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bridges in San Antonio, TX.

Is a dental bridge or an implant a better solution?

While dental bridges can be an economical way to replace one or more missing teeth, they do have one important limitation: They usually need to be replaced after between five and 15 years. In younger patients, bridges may not be the first choice for tooth replacement. Some dental professionals may choose to go with a dental implant, which is a more permanent solution.

For patients who are unsure if they need a dental bridge or an implant, it is a good idea to speak with a dental professional. Dentists can talk through the benefits and drawbacks of each option and often will make a recommendation based on the individual patient's circumstances.

Conclusion

Missing teeth can cause problems in everyday life, but patients can consult a dental professional for guidance on their replacement. Thanks to advances in dental technology, dental bridge replacements often blend in with the rest of a patient's new smile.

Request an appointment or call All Smiles Dental Center at 210-714-7429 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.

Recent Posts

When Is A Dental Bridge Necessary?

A dental bridge can be used to replace one or a few missing teeth. As the name suggests, these oral restorations bridge gaps between teeth, restoring their appearance and functionality. Dental bridges are customized for each patient to ensure the restoration matches the size and color of the rest of their teeth.Dental bridges are made…

How Dental Bridges Can Improve Your Smile

For people who have missing teeth, dental bridges can be used to improve the appearance and restore the function of their teeth. This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients who have one or more missing front teeth.A bridge consists of crowns that are placed on both sides of the missing tooth or teeth that provide…

How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?

Various materials go into the fabrication of dental bridges in general dentistry. They also have support structures that hold them in place. For example, a conventional bridge gets its support from two teeth on either side of the gap that it fills. In contrast, dentists use cantilever bridges to fill an open-ended gap. This type…

Recent Posts

Reasons You Should Visit A Cosmetic Dentist

3 Reasons You Should Visit A Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist can help if you are not happy with the way your smile looks or feels. The right treatment for your dental needs can change your life. Knowing the reasons for seeing this dental care provider can help you schedule an appointment soon. Here are three reasons for visiting a cosmetic dentist.Dental decay…

How A Cosmetic Dentist Whitens Teeth

How A Cosmetic Dentist Whitens Teeth

One of the most popular procedures cosmetic dentists offers is teeth whitening. So, if you are one of the many who would like to see your teeth a few shades brighter, you are not alone. However, those considering these procedures should know what to expect. This article covers key details of teeth whitening from a…