We understand how important a complete and confident smile is. If you’re missing teeth, don’t worry because dental bridges can fill the gap. At Derby Dental, we offer dental bridges to help our Austin patients rediscover the joy of a full smile. This treatment is part of our restorative dentistry services, available to patients in Austin, Texas.
Dental Bridges In Austin TX
Missing a tooth or multiple teeth can impact your oral health, confidence, and the way you eat and speak. At Derby Dental in Austin, TX, we understand the importance of a complete and healthy smile. That’s why we offer dental bridges as a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth.
What You Should Know About Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a custom-made prosthetic appliance used to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) that are held in place by dental crowns. These crowns are cemented onto the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap, providing a stable and secure anchor for the bridge.
Here’s what makes dental bridges a great option:
-
Restores your smile: Bridges fill in the gaps, giving you a full, natural-looking smile.
-
Improves function: They restore your ability to chew and speak properly.
-
Maintains facial structure: A bridge helps prevent the collapse of facial tissues that can occur with missing teeth.
-
Prevents shifting: It stops the remaining natural teeth from drifting out of position, which can lead to bite problems and other dental issues.
-
Durable and long-lasting: With proper care, a dental bridge can last for many years.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Bridge?
A dental bridge may be the right choice for you if:
-
You have one or more missing teeth: Bridges are an excellent solution for filling a gap left by a single tooth or several teeth in a row.
-
You have healthy teeth on either side of the gap: The success of a traditional bridge relies on the strength and health of the surrounding anchor teeth. These teeth need to be strong enough to support the crowns and the pontics.
-
You are seeking a fixed, non-removable solution: Unlike dentures, a dental bridge is a permanent fixture that you don’t have to take out.
-
You are looking for a more cost-effective option than implants: While dental implants are a fantastic solution, a dental bridge can often be a more budget-friendly alternative.
Benefits of Choosing Dental Bridges
When you choose dental bridges, you gain more than just a complete smile.
- Restored Function: Dental bridges help you chew and speak better again. This helps restore the function you lost from missing teeth.
- Preserve Oral Health: When we fill the gaps, bridges help prevent your teeth from shifting. They also help maintain the natural alignment of your bite. This should help prevent further dental issues.
- Improved Looks: Dental bridges not only improve how your teeth work but also enhance the look of your mouth. This can boost your confidence and make you feel better about yourself.
- Prevent Jaw Joint Issues: Choosing dental bridges can help prevent temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems. When you’re missing teeth, nearby teeth might move into those spaces, causing your bite to become uneven. This uneven bite can put extra pressure on your jaw joint (TMJ), which can lead to pain and problems with how your jaw works. The bridge keeps your bite aligned.
Our Dental Bridge Procedure
The process is straightforward. The typical procedure begins with a dental exam. Our dentist will look at your mouth and the location of the missing teeth. Then, he will give you your bridge options.
Next, the dentist prepares the teeth next to the gap by shaping them to support the bridge. Then, they take an impression of your teeth to create a custom-fit bridge. This bridge includes a false tooth (or teeth) held in place by crowns on each side. While waiting for the permanent bridge, we may place a temporary one to protect your prepared teeth and gums.
During your next visit, we will remove the temporary bridge, check the permanent one, and adjust it for a perfect fit. Once you and the dentist are satisfied with how it fits, he will cement the bridge into place.
With proper care, your new dental bridge can last many years, restoring your confidence to smile, eat, and speak comfortably. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to keep your bridge in great shape.
