If you have a missing tooth or need it pulled, you have several options for replacement. Missing teeth can lead to secondary oral health complications. Plano, TX, dentist Dr. Jacob Grapevine recommends replacing missing teeth as soon as possible to prevent damage to the bone or gum structure and neighboring teeth. Dental bridges are a restorative dentistry treatment we provide to the public in Plano, TX.
Bridges typically consist of pontics and abutments. Abutment teeth are the teeth on either side of a missing tooth gap. A dentist prepares these teeth and then places dental crowns. The natural teeth help support the pontics, or the replacement teeth.
Why Do I Need a Bridge?
Losing one or more teeth can lead to multiple problems, including:
- Facial sagging
- Difficulty eating or speaking clearly
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Shifting teeth
A custom bridge can restore your mouth function and self-confidence. When you lose teeth, especially your front teeth, you may hide your smile around others. A natural-looking bridge that uses metal and porcelain materials will last and blend in with other teeth.
Types of Dental Bridges
We offer several types of dental bridges. Dr. Grapevine can help you choose which is right for you:
We only recommend a removable dental bridge as a short-term solution. Removable bridges help maintain tooth position while patients wait for a fixed dental bridge or implant.
For a fixed dental bridge, a prosthetic tooth is connected to two dental crowns which cover the teeth on either side of the gap. One of the caveats of a traditional fixed bridge is that it places stress on the natural teeth. Particularly if they are healthy teeth, this is of concern because it causes wear and can lead to the formation of cavities.
Other bridge options include Cantilever and Maryland bridges. A Cantilever bridge uses support from only one side of the missing tooth gap. Maryland bridges are false teeth with metal wings that bond to the back of natural teeth.
Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants in Plano: What To Consider
One of the biggest differences between a dental bridge and an implant is that an implant is closest to a natural tooth. In fact, most people forget they have an implant. Dental implants are an extremely conservative solution and present the fewest problems in the future.
Depending on the individual case, dental implants can replace a single tooth or several teeth. Though there is a significant initial investment, dental implants last a lifetime. Dental implants in our Plano, TX office require little to no follow-up maintenance.
Implant-Supported Dental Bridge
Dr. Grapevine will recommend an implant-supported bridge to replace several consecutively missing teeth. While a traditional dental bridge uses support from adjacent teeth, tooth preparation can permanently damage healthy teeth. Implants provide more structural support for the jaw and bite and need less maintenance.
When we use teeth implants, we do not need to use healthy teeth as support. We will permanently secure the dental bridge in place which helps to preserve the healthy adjacent teeth.
Dr. Grapevine will create a customized treatment plan considering how many teeth you are missing and the location.
The first step in the dental implant-supported bridge process is surgical implantation. Our dentist in Plano, TX will coordinate this process with a local oral surgeon or periodontist who will work off the treatment plan.
The implants will take about three to six months to completely heal and fuse with your jawbone. During this time, Dr. Grapevine will take impressions of your mouth and teeth. A lab uses these impressions to create your dental bridge.
Then, we will place abutments to connect the implants to the bridge. Once fully healed, you will return to our office, where Dr. Grapevine will place the bridge.
How to Care for a Bridge
Like your natural teeth, you should brush and floss your bridge twice a day. When you floss, ensure you reach beneath your bridge. Leftover food and bacteria can get trapped beneath your bridge.
We often recommend a water flosser or threaded floss to help clean beneath your bridge. In addition, when you brush your bridge, use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Continue to schedule regular dental visits twice a year. At regular visits, we will examine your bridge to ensure it’s in good shape.
Dental Bridge FAQs
Learn more about dental bridges in our Plano, TX office with answers to these common questions:
Can you repair a broken dental bridge?
Yes. We can repair broken dental bridges at our dentist office. Be sure to visit as soon as possible to repair your bridge before it causes more issues. A broken bridge can create more opportunities for bacteria to cause infection and cavities on the anchor teeth.
How long does a dental bridge usually last?
The general consensus for the lifespan of a dental bridge is 5 to 15 years. A well-taken care-of bridge can last over 10 years without needing to be replaced. Dr. Grapevine can determine if your current bridge needs to be replaced soon.
With the support of implants, bridges can last longer without the need to rebase or replace your false teeth.
Does a bridge damage your teeth?
This is always a possibility. If your dental bridge fits too loosely, it can cause cavities under the crowns on your anchor teeth. If you don’t diligently brush and floss under your fixed bridge, it can cause gum irritation and disease.
You will not need to worry about these issues if you practice excellent oral hygiene and visit your dentist at least twice a year.
Replace Your Missing Teeth
During a comprehensive evaluation and consultation, our dentist in Plano, TX, will review your dental bridge options and help you make the best selection for your long-term goals.
Options for replacing missing teeth include:
- Dental Implants
- Denture or Partial Denture
- Fixed Dental Bridge
- Removable Dental Bridge
Call Dr. Grapevine’s Plano, TX dental office for dental bridges at (972) 449-5759. If you have any questions about options for your missing teeth, let us know at your next visit.