Tooth loss is a common problem that affects many people across the country. However, missing a tooth doesn’t mean that you need to go the rest of your life with a gap in your smile. The good news is that Dr. Sung-Hee Lee can help! Dental bridges in Dallas are an affordable way to replace one or more missing teeth in a row. If you have gaps in your smile that leave you insecure about your smile, a dental bridge may be the solution. To learn more or schedule a consultation, just give us a call !
A dental bridge is a type of restoration that’s used to replace one or several consecutive missing teeth in a row. This could be anywhere from one tooth to four teeth. The bridge is composed of two dental crowns and a number of replacement teeth, also called “pontics.” The crowns are anchored on the adjacent teeth or implants depending on the type of dental bridge that a patient opts for. Bridges can be made from a variety of different materials, but porcelain is usually the best choice for a strong, natural-looking result.
If it is determined that you make a good candidate for a dental bridge, there are a couple different types that you could end up with:
For patients who still have healthy teeth on each side of the gap that needs to be filled in, a traditional bridge may be an ideal option. The teeth that support the crowns are known as “abutment teeth.” They need to be altered slightly for the bridge to fit properly. This type of restoration can be placed in just a few visits and typically costs less than the implant alternative.
A dental implant bridge can be used for patients who have three or more missing teeth in a row. Instead of being placed over abutment teeth, the crowns are placed on the titanium posts that merge with the jaw and act as artificial tooth roots. Implant bridges tend to last longer than traditional bridges on average and help to prevent jawbone deterioration as a result of tooth loss.
A traditional dental bridge is a pretty simple and cost-effective option for people who have suffered from tooth loss in the past. In addition to providing strength and stability for chewing and speaking, they help to maintain the shape of your face. They also help to prevent your surrounding natural teeth from shifting out of place to fill the gap.