Dental Bridges in Houston
Are you struggling with missing teeth, finding it hard to smile confidently, or experiencing difficulty while eating? Dental bridges might be your perfect solution. Dental bridges are a tried and true dental treatment that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They consist of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth/teeth in between. These false teeth, known as pontics, can be made from gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of these materials. Dental bridges are supported by natural teeth or implants, providing a seamless, natural-looking restoration.
Why Should I Get Dental Bridges?
The remaining teeth can shift when you lose a tooth, leading to a bad bite. Missing teeth can also lead to gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Dental bridges help alleviate these problems by restoring your smile and the ability to speak and chew properly. They also help maintain the shape of your face and distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth. With dental bridges, you're not just enhancing your smile but also protect your oral health.
Did You Know?
Over 15 million people in the U.S. choose dental bridges and crowns each year to replace missing teeth.
The Benefits Of Dental Bridges
The Dental Bridges Treatment Process
01. Consultation and Assessment
The dental bridge treatment process begins with a consultation and assessment. During this initial visit, your dentist in Houston will examine your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to determine if a dental bridge is the best solution for your missing tooth or teeth. They will discuss the different types of bridges available and help you choose the one that best suits your needs. X-rays and impressions of your teeth may be taken to aid in the planning process.
02. Preparation of Abutment Teeth
Once you and your dentist have decided on a dental bridge, the next step is to prepare the abutment teeth. These are the teeth on either side of the missing tooth that will support the bridge. Your dentist will recontour these teeth by removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crowns that will be placed over them. This ensures a secure and stable fit for the bridge. After the abutment teeth are prepared, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used by a dental lab to create your custom bridge, pontic (artificial tooth), and crowns.
03. Temporary Bridge Placement
While your permanent bridge is being crafted at the dental lab, your dentist will provide you with a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums. This temporary bridge is designed to maintain the space between your teeth and prevent them from shifting. It also helps you maintain a normal appearance and function until your permanent bridge is ready. You'll wear this temporary bridge for a few weeks, and your dentist will provide you with care instructions to keep it clean and secure.
04. Fitting and Adjustments
When your permanent bridge is ready, you'll return to the dental office to have it fitted. Your dentist will remove the temporary bridge and check the fit of the new bridge to ensure it's comfortable and properly aligned. They may need to make some adjustments to achieve the perfect fit. This process may require multiple visits to fine-tune the bridge's fit and bite. Your dentist will also check the color and shape of the pontic to ensure it blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
05. Permanent Bridge Cementation
After all the necessary adjustments have been made, your dentist will permanently cement the bridge into place. They will clean the abutment teeth and apply a special dental cement to the crowns. The bridge is then carefully placed over the abutment teeth and secured. Once the cement has set, your dentist will check your bite one final time and make any last-minute adjustments if needed. Your new dental bridge is now complete, restoring your smile and your ability to chew and speak with confidence.
FAQs
How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?
Will My Dental Bridge Look Natural?
How Do I Care For My Dental Bridge?
Is Getting a Dental Bridge Painful?
