Dental Bridge
 When you are missing teeth, your dentist is able to use a dental bridge to help fill in the gaps in your smile. There are different materials that can be used; porcelain is the most common material because it looks natural when placed next to your teeth. Our team at Robert F. Walker Jr. DDS is here to help you when it is time to get a bridge for those missing teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
There are different types of dental bridges you can discuss with our team. The traditional dental bridge will include pontic teeth or teeth that are held in place with dental crowns. These are then cemented into the abutment teeth. This is the most common type of bridge and will work well if you have your natural teeth holding the bridge in place on either side.
A cantilever dental bridge is another option we can discuss. It is similar to what is considered a traditional bridge, though, with this one, a dental crown that has been cemented into just one of the abutment teeth holds the bridge in place. This one works for those who only have one natural tooth by the tooth gap.
A Maryland dental bridge will employ two of the natural abutment teeth, with one on each side of the gap. However, this method will use a framework with porcelain or metal to bond onto the back of the teeth. Like a regular bridge, this one works best with a natural tooth on both sides of the gap.
The fourth option is an implant-supported dental bridge. This one will use a dental implant, one placed for each missing tooth. These implants will then need to hold the bridge in position. It is one of the strongest methods but will require two surgeries to get the work done, one to embed the implants into the jawbone and the second to place the bridge.
What Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
There are different variables that will affect how much a dental bridge will cost. The number of teeth you are replacing in the gap, the materials you decide to use in the bridge, how difficult it is to place the piece, and any other dental issues that need to be treated along the way. The type of bridge you use will have a different cost as well. You can discuss this treatment with your insurance to see if they will cover part or all of the procedure.
An effective solution for a missing tooth
A bridge is used to replace missing teeth. Our dentist makes beautiful, natural-looking bridges that restore the strength and function of your smile. A dental bridge gives you back the ability to chew, speak, and smile as if you never had a missing tooth to begin with.
Bridges are a single crown or several crowns attached together in order to fill the space left behind by a missing tooth or teeth. They are suspended across the space and bonded to the adjacent natural teeth. When an experienced dentist like Dr. Walker places a dental bridge, it looks and functions much like natural teeth.
Dental bridges may be designed using a mixture of metal and porcelain or 100% porcelain materials. The type of bridge used will depend on the individual needs of the patient.
FAQs
How long does a dental bridge last?
With proper care and maintenance, a dental bridge can last between 5 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer.
Are there alternatives to dental bridges?
Yes, alternatives include dental implants and partial dentures. Our dental team can discuss the best option based on your individual needs and oral health condition.
Will a dental bridge affect my speech?
Initially, you may experience slight changes in speech, but as you adjust to the bridge, normal speech typically resumes. In fact, replacing missing teeth can improve speech clarity.
How We Can Help
Are you looking to get a dental bridge? At Robert F. Walker Jr. DDS, we know how important your smile is to you. That is why we are here to help with all of your oral health needs, including bridges. When you are ready to discuss your dental options, give us a call at (480) 786-4000. We can help answer any of your questions or concerns with the dental bridge process.
|
