Dental bridges can replace one to three missing teeth in a row, restoring form and function to your smile while simultaneously protecting your gums against periodontal diseases. At our practice in Tomball, TX, Dr. Louis Russell, Jr., uses CEREC® technology to create fully customized porcelain bridges in a single visit. We offer both traditional and implant-supported bridges as well as a number of other treatments to help our patients fill the gap in their smiles with a natural-looking and durable restoration.
What is a Dental Bridge?
One of the most common teeth replacement options, dental bridges fill in the gaps left behind by missing teeth. Comprised of artificial teeth (pontics) fused to two dental crowns, a traditional dental bridge is anchored to the natural teeth on either side of the space, completing your smile. Beautifully crafted from tooth-colored materials, these bridges blend with your surrounding teeth and provide an incredibly natural-looking result.
Implant-supported bridges are attached to dental implants that have been surgically placed in your jawbone. These restorations offer an unrivaled level of support and are a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth. While they are generally a more expensive option than a traditional bridge, implant-supported restorations can also have greater oral health benefits, as they can halt jawbone atrophy.
Traditional dental bridges attach to adjacent teeth to bridge the gap in your smile.
Am I a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
If you are missing one to three consecutive teeth, you may be a good candidate for a dental bridge. Traditional dental bridges may be a good option for patients who cannot undergo surgical procedures due to health risks or for those who wish to avoid surgery altogether. Regardless, before undergoing any cosmetic or restorative dental procedures, patients should be in otherwise sound oral health with no active periodontal disease. Prior to recommending a dental bridge, Dr. Russell will conduct a thorough examination to determine your candidacy for the procedure.
With proper care, a dental bridge can add health and beauty to your smile for years to come.
Dental Bridge Treatment Overview
Once your treatment plan has been determined, we can begin planning your procedure. Placement of a dental bridge was traditionally a two-step process. However, modern CEREC technology now allows qualifying patients to receive same-day bridges here in our office. When you have a traditional bridge placed at our practice, you can expect that your treatment will include:
- Tooth Preparation: The teeth on both sides of the gap will be reshaped to accommodate the restoration. These abutment teeth will anchor your new bridge.
- Impressions: Digital impressions will be taken of your teeth so your new prosthesis can be made. This innovative technology provides precise measurements so that your restoration will be a near perfect fit.
- Designing Your Bridge: Using cutting edge CEREC technology, a virtual restoration will be designed with our software.
- Crafting Your Bridge: Once the prosthesis is digitally crafted, we can send the files to our in-office milling station where your final bridge will be fabricated in approximately one hour.
- Placement of Your Bridge: Dr. Russell will ensure your prosthesis fits just right and will make any necessary adjustments before cementing your bridge into place. Your bite will be checked to establish proper function. You may be instructed on proper oral hygiene habits and given instructions on how to floss around a bridge. With proper care, a dental bridge can add health and beauty to your smile for years to come.
Implant-Supported Bridges
At Russell Family Dentistry, we also offer implant-supported bridges. An implant-supported bridge functions the same as a traditional bridge, but is supported by dental implants rather than by your natural teeth. For this reason, implant-supported bridges offer some advantages over their traditional counterparts. Dental implants are long-lasting, and are widely considered the superior teeth replacement option. Most importantly, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing resorption and encouraging bone growth to safeguard your future oral health.
Schedule a Consultation
If you would like to learn more about dental bridges as a teeth replacement option, schedule a visit with Dr. Russell. You can contact us online anytime or call our office at (281) 351-5458.
