Missing a tooth or a few? Don’t worry, we’ve got a great solution for you. Dental bridges are a popular way to replace one or more missing teeth. They can do wonders for your smile, your confidence, and even your overall oral health. At Smile Land Family Dental in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Bassam Abazid and our friendly team are here to help you find the perfect bridge to fit your needs.
What’s a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is exactly what it sounds like. It “bridges” the gap left by missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth that are held in place by crowns on the natural teeth. Dental implants on either side of the gap can also hold them in place.
Unlike dentures, bridges are fixed restorations, which means they stay in your mouth permanently. They’re a great way to restore your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and keep your other teeth from shifting out of place.
A dental bridge might be the right choice for you for the following reasons:
- To Replace Missing Teeth: Missing teeth can make it hard to chew, speak, or even smile with confidence. A bridge fills the gap and brings back your smile’s natural look and function.
- Stop Teeth from Shifting: When you lose a tooth, the teeth around it can start to move into the empty space. This can mess up your bite and make it harder to clean your teeth. A bridge keeps everything in place.
- Maintain Your Face’s Shape: Missing teeth can make your face look sunken or older than it is. A bridge helps support your facial structure and keeps you looking like yourself.
- Boost Your Confidence: Let’s face it, missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious. A bridge can help you feel more confident in your smile and in social situations.
Types of Dental Bridges
Not all bridges are the same! Depending on your situation, Dr. Abazid might recommend one of these types:
- Traditional Bridge: This is the most common type. It uses crowns on the teeth next to the gap to hold the false tooth (or teeth) in place. It’s a great option if you have healthy teeth on both sides of the gap.
- Cantilever Bridge: This one is similar to a traditional bridge, but it’s only supported by one tooth instead of two. It’s less common because it can put extra pressure on that one tooth. But it’s an option if you only have one tooth next to the gap.
- Maryland Bridge: Also called a resin-bonded bridge, this type uses a metal or porcelain framework to hold the false tooth. The framework is bonded to the backs of the neighboring teeth, so no crowns are needed. It’s for front teeth but isn’t as strong as a traditional bridge.
- Implant-Supported Bridge: If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, this might be the best option. Instead of using natural teeth for support, dental implants hold this bridge in place. It’s super stable and durable, but it does need surgery to place the implants.
The Dental Bridge Process in San Antonio, TX
Getting a dental bridge usually takes a few visits. We’ll walk you through every step during your initial visit. Here’s what to expect:
First Visit: Consultation and Planning
Dr. Abazid will start by checking your teeth and gums to make sure a bridge is the right choice for you. We might take digital X-rays or impressions of your teeth to help us plan your treatment.
Prepping the Teeth
If you’re getting a traditional or cantilever bridge, we’ll need to prepare the teeth next to the gap. This means reshaping them a little to make room for the crowns that will hold the bridge in place. Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable!
Taking Impressions
After we prepare your teeth, we’ll take impressions of your teeth. Then we will send them to a dental lab, where they will make your custom bridge. While you wait, we’ll give you a temporary bridge to protect your teeth and gums.
Placing the Permanent Bridge
When your permanent bridge is ready, you’ll come back to have it placed. Dr. Abazid will check the fit and make any adjustments to ensure it feels just right. Then, he’ll cement it into place, and you’ll leave with a brand-new smile!
If you’re getting an implant-supported bridge, the process is a little longer because it involves placing the implants and letting them heal before attaching the bridge. Ask us about dental implants and how they can permanently restore your missing teeth.
How Do You Take Care of a Dental Bridge?
Taking care of your bridge is super important to keep it in great shape. Here are some tips:
- Brush and Floss Daily: Just like your natural teeth, your bridge needs to be cleaned every day. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss. Special tools like floss threaders or interdental brushes can help you clean under the bridge.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular checkups are key to keeping your bridge, and the rest of your mouth, healthy. We’ll make sure everything is working as it should and catch any potential issues early.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Your bridge is strong, but it’s not indestructible. Try to avoid biting down on hard foods like ice or nuts, and steer clear of sticky treats like caramel that could pull on your bridge.
- Use Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of gum disease.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge could be the perfect solution for you. It’s a simple, effective way to bring back your smile, your confidence, and your ability to eat and speak comfortably. At Smile Land Family Dental, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Call us at 210-939-9689 or schedule a consultation online to learn more.