Do you have multiple missing teeth? Are your permanently lost teeth making it difficult to eat? Dental bridges are a minimally invasive tooth replacement method. We can place a custom dental bridge in our Cedar Park, TX office to replace one or more consecutive missing teeth.
Tooth bridges are one of the most effective restorative dentistry treatments we provide patients. At Vista Ridge Family Dentistry in Cedar Park, TX, we offer dental bridges to renew the look and function of the smile.
Do I Need a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge prevents various problems from missing permanent teeth. Bridges can prevent:
- Teeth shifting to fill a missing tooth gap
- Speech issues from missing teeth
- Changes in face shape
- Eating problems from an uneven bite
If you have a row of missing teeth and want to preserve the look and feel of a natural smile, a bridge may be right for you. We will not recommend bridges for patients with teeth clenching and grinding. Our office will treat bruxism before recommending restorative care.
We will also treat gum disease and tooth decay to ensure you are healthy enough for a bridge. Tooth and gum infections can impact the stability of your bridge.
Types of Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can be fixed or removable. Fixed or non-removable bridges clasp onto natural teeth. Removable bridges may be removed for cleaning. While these bridges may cost less than fixed bridges, they are less stable.
We recommend dental bridges secured by dental crowns or implants for improved stability. There are many bridges to choose from, and we will help you determine which bridge is right for you:
- Traditional Bridge: A conventional dental bridge uses crown-capped teeth on either side of a missing tooth gap to secure false teeth in place. Conventional dental bridges offer an excellent option for restoring multiple teeth at once. They can replace missing teeth without oral surgery.
- Cantilever Bridge: This bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However, a Cantilever bridge uses support from one side of the missing tooth gap to secure the prosthetic. The risk of Cantilever bridges is that they do not receive enough support. These bridges are only anchored on one side.
- Maryland Bridge: A Maryland Bridge consists of a false tooth with metal wings. A dentist bonds the metal wings on the back of the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth. Maryland bridges are a good option for children with permanent missing teeth because of the quick and effective treatment.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: An implant-supported bridge uses dental implant posts to restore a row of missing teeth. Implant bridges do not use support from natural teeth. This is because dental implants act like natural teeth to replace missing teeth at the root.
The Dental Bridge Procedure in Cedar Park, TX
Our dental office works with a dental lab to create dental crowns and dental bridges to replace multiple missing teeth. To begin dental bridge treatment, we prepare the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth gap. Preparing the teeth removes part of the outer tooth enamel to ensure the dental crowns fit correctly.
Then, we take digital dental impressions of the smile. We send these impressions to a dental lab, where technicians create custom-made teeth that match the natural contours of the smile. Our office will also provide a temporary bridge at this time.
Once the permanent restoration is complete, we will place the crowns and bridge. We will secure the tooth bridge with the crowns. Finally, we ensure the bridge fits properly and blends in with the smile’s appearance.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridges
We recommend an implant-secured dental crown for single teeth so adjacent teeth do not require modification. Dental implants can also support a bridge. We will take X-rays to view your teeth, gums, and jaw to prepare for implant treatment.
Good candidates for implants are in good oral health. If you have gum disease, tooth decay, or other problems, we will treat these issues first. Then, we ensure you have enough healthy jaw bone to support implants. We may recommend grafting treatment if you lack healthy jaw bone.
An oral surgeon will place the implants in the missing tooth gap to begin treatment. Our surgeon will cover the implant posts with healing caps.
Like traditional bridge treatment, we take digital impressions to create the prosthetic. The implant can take three to six months to heal as it fuses with the natural jaw bone.
Once the implants heal, we will place the abutments. These pieces will connect each implant with the bridge. You will need more time for your gums to heal after placement.
Finally, we will place the final bridge. We will double-check the shape and shade of your false teeth, and our team will also ensure your bridge fits comfortably.
Should I Get a Traditional or Implant-Supported Bridge?
There are multiple factors to keep in mind when considering your bridge options:
- Treatment Time: It takes longer to complete implant treatment due to preparation and healing time. You can receive a traditional tooth bridge in several weeks. Alternatively, it can take months to heal after implant treatment.
- Preparation: If you do not have enough jaw bone to support your implants, you will require bone grafting treatment. However, if you choose a traditional bridge, we must prepare your natural teeth for crowns.
- Cost: Implant-supported bridges will cost more upfront due to their materials and treatment time. Traditional bridges may be a more cost-effective option. However, you must re-cement or replace your bridge over time. Implants stay in the jaw bone, ensuring bridges last many years without replacement.
If you aren’t sure whether you need a traditional or implant bridge, we recommend contacting our office and scheduling a visit with our team. Traditional and implant-supported bridges are excellent choices for different reasons, and we’d be happy to discuss them with you.
How to Care for a Dental Bridge
Good oral hygiene is an essential part of bridge care. Brush and floss twice a day when you clean your dental bridge. Ensure that you clean under your bridge, as food can get trapped under your prosthetic.
Flossing around the gums and beneath the bridge will prevent bacterial buildup. A water flosser or threaded floss will also help provide a proper clean.
Remember to schedule routine cleanings. Professional dental care can provide a deep clean for your teeth, gums, and bridge. We can also perform routine exams to ensure your bridges stay stable.
A traditional bridge can last 10 to 15 years with the proper care. Implant-secured crowns or bridges can last 15 to 20 or more years.
Restore Missing Teeth with a Dental Bridge
Are you interested in a dental bridge in Cedar Park, TX? Call Vista Ridge Family Dentistry for restorative dental treatment today at 512-866-9654 or schedule a dental appointment on our website.
Please let us know if you have questions about dental restorations like dental bridges. We will work with you to find the best dental restoration for your missing teeth. Whether you need a single crown-capped implant, implant bridge, or traditional dental bridge, we can help. Our goal is to deliver functional, beautiful smiles.