Dental Bridges
Tooth decay, trauma, and age-related deterioration can lead to one or more missing teeth. These situations often don’t require dentures but do need something larger than a single implant or dental crown.
A dental bridge can replace missing teeth. They look and feel natural, and use the healthy teeth around your gap to anchor the implant.
A dental bridge strengthens your smile overall, preventing cascade tooth loss that can occur after losing one, two, or even three teeth–all while restoring your smile and your confidence.
If you’re missing more than one tooth, Dr. Andrew Philley can help. Our dental office is available to provide restorative dentistry, including bridges, crowns, and more.
Contact our offices today to schedule an appointment.
903-581-0581 Contact UsTypes of Tooth Bridges
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Fixed Bridges
A traditional fixed bridge is the most common type of dental bridge. Dr. Philley will implant two dental crowns on either side of the missing tooth. These will support a porcelain replacement tooth that will fill the gap in your teeth.
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Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges allow for a bridge to be implanted when there aren’t teeth on both sides to support the implant. Cantilever bridges have all the same benefits as a fixed bridge but allow for restoration of more severe tooth loss–especially on the side or back of the mouth.
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Resin-Bonded Bridges
Resin-bonded bridges are frequently for areas of the mouth where teeth undergo less stress, like the front teeth. In a resin-bonded dental bridge, the resin is used to bond metal bands around the supporting tooth, which are then used to hold the implant.
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Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges are the newest type of bridge, and they’re popular because they’re the strongest currently available. These bridges use dental implants to support the replacement teeth between them.
Getting A Dental Bridge
A dental bridge may take 2 to 3 visits to properly install. You may also require a few follow-up visits to ensure the implant is properly fitted and comfortable.
Initial Visit
During your initial visit, Dr. Philley will ensure that the surrounding teeth are prepared for the crowns.
Dr. Philley will also take an impression of your teeth. This will allow the laboratory to create perfectly-fitted replacement teeth.
Finally, Dr. Philley will attach a temporary bridge. This will restore your smile and allow for chewing while the replacement teeth are being crafted.
Second Visit
Between your first and second visit, the dental laboratory will create your replacement teeth. On your second visit, Dr. Philley will remove your temporary bridge and check the new one.
He’ll inspect how the bridge fits into your mouth. He’ll make any adjustments necessary to ensure your replacement teeth are fully functional.
Follow-Up Visits
You may need to come back for an office visit as the replacement teeth “settle” in. Dr. Philley will continue to adjust your bridge to ensure it aligns with your other teeth and feels comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long do dental bridges last?
With proper care, dental bridges can last 15 years or longer. Most bridges will last at least 10 years if you perform routine maintenance and care.
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Will I be able to eat with a bridge?
One of the biggest benefits of a dental bridge is to return chewing functionality to your mouth. You may want to eat soft foods after the initial installation, but eventually, you should be able to eat any food you want.
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Will I speak differently after I get a bridge?
Dental bridges will actually improve your ability to speak. It may feel awkward initially, but–especially if you're restoring back teeth–you should notice that it’s easier to speak clearly.
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How do I care for my bridge?
The most important way to care for your bridge is to keep your remaining teeth–especially the ones anchoring your bridge–healthy. This means brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash to help prevent gum disease. You care for your bridge the same way that you care for your other teeth.
Schedule Your Visit Today
The team at Philley Dentistry is here to help restore your smile. Contact us today to schedule a visit and let us see if a dental bridge is right for your tooth loss.
Schedule Appointment