As you may have guessed, dental bridges literally bridge a gap in the teeth that has been created by one or more missing teeth. In the majority of cases, dental bridges feature two crowns (one on each side of the gap) in addition to a false tooth or teeth. The crowned teeth – also referred to as anchoring teeth or abutment teeth – serve as the support system for the bridge. The false tooth or teeth – also referred to as pontics – is then placed in-between the anchoring teeth. Together, this system of teeth forms the base that will hold the bridge in place. Dental bridges can be made from a range of materials, including gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination of one or more of these materials. We use all-ceramic bridges, porcelain fused to metal bridges, and Maryland bridges, providing our patients with the best option for their specific needs.

In the event you lose a tooth, your Dallas dentist may recommend a bridge, as it is a less intrusive option that will help restore your smile and confidence. Furthermore, a bridge may help keep your other teeth from moving out of place. As soon as a bridge is placed, it will work just as the rest of your natural teeth do. Dental bridges are wonderful options for many people, as they are both affordable and take aesthetics into consideration.

Dr. Anup Naik and his entire Las Colinas dental team are committed to ensuring each and every patient who walks through our doors has a good understanding of the various dental services available to them. We understand that a visit to the dentist can be daunting, but it is our intention to change the attitude people have about dental procedures through education and awareness. Your oral health is of the utmost importance to us, which is just one of the reasons why we feature HD TVs throughout our clinic that display educational material. Dr. Naik himself is a perfectionist and a well-respected figure within the dental community, something that can be seen through his unwavering commitment to patient satisfaction. If you are in need of a dental bridge or other implant, there is no better choice than Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Las Colinas.

TYPES OF DENTAL BRIDGES

As with other dental implants, there are several different types of dental bridges:

  • Traditional fixed bridges – Traditional fixed bridges – These types of bridges consist of two or more crowns and a replacement tooth. The replacement tooth – also called a filler tooth – is attached to the crowns, all of which keeps the bridge in place. This is the most common type of bridge and it is typically made from porcelain and metal or ceramics.
  • Cantilever bridge – This type of bridge is used when a patient has his or her natural teeth just on one side of the missing tooth or teeth. Basically, there are no teeth on the other side of the gap.
  • Maryland bonded bridges (or resin-bonded bridge) – This type of bridge is made from porcelain and then fused to metal teeth that are supported by a metal framework. Dr. Naik may recommend this bridge if you are missing your front teeth.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL BRIDGES

There are numerous important benefits of dental bridges, including:

  • They can restore your smile and confidence
  • They can restore your ability to chew naturally
  • They can help improve your speech
  • They work to maintain the shape of your face
  • They can distribute the forces of your bite, working to save your remaining natural teeth
  • No pain
  • They can prevent your remaining teeth from shifting out of position

In most cases, dental bridges can last 5 to 7 years or longer. However, it is important that proper oral hygiene is followed and you do everything you can to care for the bridge. To learn more about our Irving dental bridge services or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Naik today regarding the health of your teeth, please do not hesitate to contact Cosmetic and Family Dentistry of Las Colinas today.