Dental Bridges in Waxahachie, TX
Restore Your Missing Teeth with Dr. Clinton, Dr. Mata, and Dr. Todd
Are you missing one or more teeth and feeling self-conscious about it? Do you find it difficult to chew, speak, or smile confidently? If so, consider getting dental bridges at Waxahachie Family Dentistry in Waxahachie, TX.
Dental bridges are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health and appearance. Discover the benefits of dental bridges and how they work in our dentists’ guide below.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges are prosthetic devices that bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to the adjacent teeth (abutments) or dental implants.
Bridges can be various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or a combination of metal and porcelain. They are custom-made to match your natural teeth’s shape, size, and color, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.
The Dental Bridges Placement Process
Dental bridges work by filling in the gap created by missing teeth and restoring the function and aesthetics of your smile. The process of getting dental bridges in Waxahachie, TX, involves the following steps:
Consultation
Your dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays and impressions of your teeth, and discuss your dental and medical history, goals, and expectations. He will also explain the benefits and risks of dental bridges and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Preparation
Your dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a portion of their enamel to accommodate the dental crowns. If you have insufficient or weak teeth, your dentist may recommend dental implants as abutments instead.
Impressions
Your Waxahachie dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory, where your dental bridges will be custom-made according to your specifications and your dentist’s instructions. He may place temporary bridges to protect your teeth and gums while your permanent bridges are being fabricated.
Fitting & Follow Up
Once your permanent bridges are ready, your dentist will check their fit, shape, and color and make any necessary adjustments before cementing them onto your abutment teeth or implants.
Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check your bridges’ stability, function, and aesthetics and provide you with instructions on how to care for them properly.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Bridges in Waxahachie, TX?
Dental bridges offer numerous benefits for patients with missing teeth, including:
- Restoring your ability to chew, speak, and bite properly
- Preventing your remaining teeth from shifting, tilting, or drifting out of position
- Maintaining your facial shape and profile
- Enhancing your smile and confidence
- Improving your oral health and hygiene
- Distributing the bite forces evenly across your teeth
- Saving you money in the long run by preventing further dental problems
Types of Dental Bridges
There are three main types of dental bridges in Waxahachie, TX, depending on their design and attachment method:
- Traditional Bridges: These are the most common type of dental bridges, consisting of one or more pontics supported by dental crowns cemented onto the abutment teeth. These bridges are suitable for patients with strong and healthy teeth adjacent to the gap.
- Cantilever Bridges: These bridges are similar to traditional bridges but have only one abutment tooth instead of two. Cantilever bridges work when only one healthy tooth is adjacent to the gap.
- Maryland Bridges: Also known as resin-bonded or adhesive bridges, these bridges are made of porcelain or ceramic and are bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth using a metal or resin framework. Maryland bridges are less invasive than traditional bridges and suitable for patients with small gaps or minimal tooth damage.
- Implant-Supported Dental Bridges: These implant-supported bridges use surgically-placed titanium implants to support the bridge.
Caring For Your Dental Bridge
Bridges can last up to 15 years with proper oral hygiene. Fortunately, it’s easy to maintain dental bridges. Dr. Clinton, Dr. Mata, and Dr. Todd suggest taking the following steps to extend the lifespan of your restoration:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use fluoride toothpaste and antiseptic mouthwash
- Floss daily
- Avoid hard, sticky, crunchy, and hot foods
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Visit Dr. Clinton, Dr. Mata, or Dr. Todd for biannual checkups and professional dental cleanings
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between dental implants and dental bridges?
The dental bridge process is much faster than the implant process — it also doesn’t require surgery, so recovery time is minimal. Bridges fill in the gaps left by missing teeth and are held in place by anchoring teeth on either side of the gap.
Dental implants require surgery and several appointments to complete the process. The implants consist of titanium posts that replace your natural teeth’s roots and support a customized porcelain crown, with a small abutment connecting the pieces.
Are dental bridges painful?
No, getting dental bridges is not painful, as your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. However, you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure, which can be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers.
How long do dental bridges last?
Bridges can last up to 15 years or longer with proper care and maintenance. This routine care includes daily brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups with your dentist. Ask your dentist for any other specific considerations when caring for your bridge.
Can anyone get dental bridges?
Dental bridges don’t work for every patient as they require healthy teeth and gums, sufficient bone density, and good oral hygiene. Your dentist will evaluate your case and determine if dental bridges are the right solution for you.
How much do dental bridges cost?
The cost of dental bridges varies depending on various factors. These factors include the type and material of the bridges, the number of teeth being replaced, and your insurance coverage. Your dentist can provide a personalized treatment plan and estimate at your consultation.
Achieve Your Smile Goals With Dr. Clinton
If you’re looking for a reliable solution for tooth loss, schedule a consultation at our Waxahachie office at (921) 885-3335. Our expert team is ready to provide restorative care that will have you sharing your beautiful smile in no time. You can also get in touch by filling out our online contact form and one of our staff will get back to you as soon as possible.