What Is A Dental Bridge And How Does It Address Tooth Loss?
A dental bridge comprises two or more artificial teeth that unite together to form a single prosthesis. It is a permanent replacement solution for those who have lost multiple adjacent teeth within the same arch.
Our dental bridges in Cypress, TX, have two major components; abutments and pontics. The abutments are crowns that cover the supporting teeth or dental implants on either side of the missing space. They provide a supportive foundation for the bridge. Pontics are artificial teeth that fill in the space left by missing teeth.
After the bridge installment, you will have a slight gap between the base of the pontics and the gum line. It is important to keep this area clean to improve the lifespan of your prosthesis.
Different Types of Dental Bridges In Cypress, TX
At our Cypress, TX, practice, we offer four different types of dental bridges. Our qualified dentists will first examine your surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine which type will be most suitable for you.
- Traditional dental bridge: It is the most common type of dental bridge, which consists of dental crowns or caps on either end with pontics in between. The crowns cover the abutment teeth, which provide support and stability to the bridge. It replicates the structure and functions of your natural teeth.
- Cantilever dental bridge: A cantilever bridge works on a similar principle as a traditional bridge, but there is only one abutment crown to support it. It is recommended in cases where natural teeth are present only on one side of the missing space. It can replace one missing tooth but is not as strong as a traditional bridge.
- Maryland dental bridge: This type of bridge differs from others because it uses metal plates or wings instead of dental crowns. We bond the metal wings to the back of the adjacent supporting teeth to secure the bridge in place. They offer good aesthetics but cannot bear strong chewing forces.
- Implant-supported bridge: As the name indicates, an implant-supported bridge relies on the support of dental implants instead of natural teeth. It is a good option if you have lost three or more consecutive teeth in a row and the natural teeth are not strong enough to support a bridge.
Steps Taken at Our Practice to Prepare Teeth for a Dental Bridge
Typically, the procedure of dental bridges requires two appointments at our Cypress, TX, clinic. During the first visit, we will prepare your teeth for bridge placement under local anesthesia. In this process, we will shave off a thin enamel layer from the supporting teeth. The purpose of this step is to make room for bridge placement without disturbing the natural bite.
If the supporting teeth are not in a healthy shape, we may recommend restorative treatments beforehand to improve their structural integrity. However, we may opt for dental implants as anchors if the adjacent teeth are too weak to support the bridge.
After tooth preparation, we will record dental impressions of your upper and lower arch. These impressions are then sent to a dental lab. While the lab fabricates your new bridge, we will provide a temporary replacement to cover your prepared teeth. Once we receive the fixed bridge, we test its fit before securing it permanently over your teeth. Afterward, we will fix it using dental cement and perform minor adjustments to match your natural bite. Within 2 weeks, we can restore your missing teeth so you can enjoy a bright, confident smile!
Benefits of Getting Dental Bridges In Cypress, TX
Custom-fit dental bridges at our Cypress, TX, practice are an excellent tooth replacement for missing teeth. They offer many benefits, which include:
- They fill in the missing gap, giving a natural look and feel to your smile.
- They enhance oral functions, allowing you to bite and chew normally.
- They reduce speech difficulties, as missing teeth can make it difficult to enunciate words.
- Bridges prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting into the missing space, which may cause bite disturbance.
- They support the facial structure and prevent premature sagging.
How Do I Care For A Dental Bridge Once It’s In Place?
Dental bridges in Cypress, TX, are an easy and convenient option for replacing multiple missing teeth, but you need to take extra care if you want to relish their benefits for the long term. After bridge insertion, our dentists will provide detailed instructions on cleaning and maintaining your new prosthesis.
Brush your teeth twice daily to remove plaque and food debris around the artificial teeth. If you are at risk of cavities, we recommend using fluoridated toothpaste to strengthen the supporting teeth. It is also important to floss regularly around and beneath the bridge. If you face difficulty while flossing, you can use a floss threader or water flosser for convenience. In case of any issue, visit our dentists as soon as possible for timely intervention.
Visit Us for Affordable Tooth Replacement Solutions
If you are suffering from tooth loss, our dentists can help restore your oral health and smile with dental bridges in Cypress, TX. We are committed to providing the best care solutions for your dental needs. Visit our practice today or call us at (281) 262-2332 to schedule an appointment.